Tradition has it that kebabs were invented by Turkish soldiers many centuries ago. Chunks of meat skewered on swords and grilled over an open fire made for an easy-to-cook and tasty battlefield meal. The term shish kebab translates to “skewer of grilled meat”. Soldiers returning home after World War II brought the kebabs back with them and the popularity of this dish has been growing steadily since then.

Kebabs come in many forms and variations of these forms. Each Middle Eastern country or region has its take on kebabs and how they should be made. But the basics remain the same - the meat/vegetables, the skewer, and the flame. That said, keep these tips in mind when you do your cooking:

• Meats need to be marinated, so make sure you do this ahead of time.
• The type of marination will depend on the type of kebab.
• Keep the spices for mixing with or coating the meats and vegetables ready.
• Flat stainless-steel skewers are the most common, but bamboo and wooden skewers can also be used.
• Lightly coat the skewers with cooking oil so that the meat and vegetables slide off easily after they are cooked.
• Intersperse the meat and vegetables on the skewer so that each piece is close to the other, but ensure they are not touching.

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Also Read: Fresh Mediterranean Salads & Wraps

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• Normally the meat and vegetables should be in 1½ inch chunks.
• Kebabs need to be cooked over high heat, preferably on a wood or coal fire although gas will also work.
• Lightly spray the grill with cooking oil to prevent the kebabs from sticking.
• Some kebabs like Turkish doner kebabs need to be cooked on a vertical spit. Do not try to make these on a flat or horizontal grill. It will not cook properly and will not taste right.
• If you are feeling adventurous, you can carry the kebab theme over to the desserts and serve skewered and grilled fruit with sweet yogurt and other dips.

Recipes are not set in stone. Do not be afraid of experimenting – you may find that your variations suit you and your family best.

Kebabs can be served on a large platter, either on or off the skewers. They can also be served on a bed of fragrant rice or couscous. Pita bread is a popular accompaniment. Dipping sauces like tahini, cacik, and tzatziki normally accompany the kebabs. They say kebabs taste best when eaten with hands, but that is up to you and your guests. Fresh Mediterranean salads and wraps are a great way to complete the meal.

Kebab recipes are easily found online and there are varieties to suit all tastes, including vegetarian and vegan versions. The ingredients are easily available at a specialized Middle Eastern grocery like Aladdin Gourmet in San Mateo, CA. The helpful staff at the store will assist you in finding all that you need. An alternative to doing the cooking is to pick up delicious kebabs from the Aladdin Deli which is known to be the best Mediterranean takeout in San Mateo. The extensive menu has so many kebab options that you will be spoiled for choice.

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