The etiquette rules on how to serve and eat kebab. Tips to be the ideal host or the perfect guest and avoid any embarrassment.

What kebab etiquette is

Kebab etiquette is the set of rules to properly serve and eat kebabs. Such rules help avoid behaviors that can disrespect your hosts or guests, or make you look unpolite.

If you are hosting, follow the etiquette to serve kebabs to your guests appropriately.

As a guest, respect the etiquette rules to properly eat kebabs at the dining table and avoid offending your hosts or embarrassing yourself.

What you should know about kebab

Kebab is a Middle Eastern dish that consists of skewered and grilled or roasted meat, usually served with vegetables, herbs, and a variety of sauces.

Kebabs come in different shapes and sizes, but they are typically made from chunks of meat or ground meat, often marinated with spices, and skewered with vegetables such as onions, peppers, or tomatoes. The color of the kebab depends on the type of meat used and the spices in the marinade. The texture is usually tender and juicy, and the flavor is often a combination of savory, smoky, and spicy.

Etiquette rules to serve and eat kebab

1) How to store kebab

The ideal temperature to store kebabs is below 40°F (4°C) in the fridge or freezer. Kebabs can be stored in the pantry for up to 2 hours, in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. To store the kebab, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container.

Sliced or cooked kebabs should be stored in the same way as raw kebabs. Cooked kebabs can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.

2) How to clean kebab

To clean the kebab skewers, use warm soapy water and a sponge or a soft-bristled brush. Make sure to remove any food particles or debris that may be stuck to the skewers. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or metal brushes that can scratch the surface of the skewers. There are no significant risks to cleaning kebab skewers.

You can tell when the kebab has turned bad by its appearance, texture, and odor. If the meat looks discolored, slimy, or has an off smell, it should be discarded.

3) How to prepare & cook kebab

Kebab should not be eaten raw, and it is essential to cook it thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses. To prepare kebabs for cooking, marinate the meat in a mixture of spices, oil, and acid, such as lemon juice, for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. The most common ways to cook kebabs are grilling, broiling, baking, or pan-frying. You can use skewers or cook the meat without skewers, depending on the recipe. Common utensils for cooking kebabs include tongs, grill brushes, and skewers.

Kebabs can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, wraps, and bowls. It is typically served as a main course or appetizer.

Kebabs may not be suitable for some diets, such as vegan, keto, or paleo, depending on the type of meat and ingredients used. Kebabs can also contain common allergens, such as gluten, soy, and dairy. Some religious dietary restrictions may also forbid eating kebabs, such as halal or kosher.

4) How to serve & present kebab

Kebab is suitable for both formal and informal meals. Kebabs can be served as a side dish, main course, or appetizer, depending on the occasion and the recipe.

When serving kebab to guests, it is polite to present it on a large platter or tray that can accommodate all the skewers. A wooden board or a ceramic platter can work well. The ideal serving temperature for kebab is when it is still warm but not hot. You can use tongs or a serving fork to remove the kebab from the skewers and place it on the platter. It is most appropriate to also provide guests with small plates and individual forks to make it easier for them to enjoy the meal.

You can serve kebabs with a variety of side dishes and seasonings. Some popular accompaniments include rice pilaf, salad, roasted vegetables, hummus, tzatziki, and pita bread. Common seasonings used with kebab include sumac, paprika, cumin, oregano, and garlic.

5) Food and wine to pair kebab with

When it comes to food pairings, kebab pairs well with a wide range of vegetables, including onions, peppers, eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes. Fruits that pair well with kebab include pomegranates, figs, and apricots. However, it is best to avoid pairing kebabs with citrus fruits, as their acidity can clash with the meat’s flavor.

Kebabs can pair well with cheese and dairy, such as feta cheese or yogurt. These can be used as a topping or a dip for the kebab. However, it is best to avoid pairing kebabs with heavy, pungent cheeses that can overpower the dish’s delicate flavors.

Kebabs can also be paired with other meats, such as lamb chops or chicken skewers. However, it is best to avoid pairing kebabs with overly spicy or heavily seasoned meats, as they can clash with the flavors of the kebab. Kebabs generally do not pair well with fish.

Kebab pairs well with a variety of wines and beverages. For red wines, a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a fruity Zinfandel can work well. For white wines, a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay can be a good choice. Other beverages that can pair well with kebab include sparkling water, iced tea, beer, and lemonade. It is best to avoid pairing kebabs with overly sweet or heavy drinks, as they can overpower the dish’s flavors.

6) How to eat kebab

When eating kebabs, it is acceptable to eat them with your fingers, but it is polite to provide guests with a fork and knife as an option. You can use a fork or a small knife to remove the meat from the skewer and place it on your plate.

Kebab etiquette: the worst mistakes

Avoid the most common kebab etiquette mistakes:

• 8/10. Double-dipping in shared sauces or dips.
• 7/10. Using your fingers to touch other people’s food.
• 7/10. Leaving your used utensils or napkins on the communal platter.

Additional information for properly serving kebab

How many calories per serving?

Counting calories is important to stay healthy and correctly plan a menu.

The number of calories in a kebab can vary depending on the type of meat and the seasoning used. On average, a chicken kebab can contain around 250-300 calories per serving, while a lamb kebab can contain around 400-500 calories per serving. A single kebab can contain around 150-200 calories.

How to buy the best kebab

A crucial factor in kebab etiquette is serving your guests the best product possible.

Season and availability 

Kebab is generally available all year round. The availability may vary depending on the location and the type of kebab. In some areas, certain types of kebabs may be more popular during certain seasons.

Choose the best

The most common ways to find kebabs in commerce are through restaurants, street vendors, and food markets. Kebabs can also be found in grocery stores and supermarkets, either as pre-made or frozen products.

The popularity and perceived value of each variety may vary depending on the region and cultural context. The most popular varieties of kebab in commerce include:

• Shish kebab: cubes of marinated meat (usually lamb or beef) grilled on skewers.
• Doner kebab: meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and sliced thinly for serving.
• Kofta kebab: ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with spices and grilled on skewers.
• Adana kebab: spicy minced meat (usually lamb or beef) grilled on skewers.
• Chicken kebab: marinated chicken grilled on skewers.

When buying kebabs, it is important to look for fresh and high-quality ingredients. The meat should be lean, tender, and properly seasoned, while any vegetables or herbs should be fresh and crisp. If possible, look for a kebab that is made on the spot, as this is a sign of freshness.

Alternatives to kebab

There are many alternatives that may offer similar flavor profiles and textures to kebab, while also featuring unique cultural and regional variations. Some popular alternatives include:

• Gyro (Greek): a similar dish to doner kebab, featuring meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served with vegetables and tzatziki sauce.
• Shawarma (Middle Eastern): a dish featuring meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in a wrap or pita bread with vegetables and sauce.
• Satay (Southeast Asian): skewered and grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) served with peanut sauce.
• Yakitori (Japanese): grilled chicken skewers seasoned with salt or tare sauce.
• Chuanr (Chinese): skewered meat (usually lamb or beef) seasoned with spices and grilled over charcoal.

Resources

• FAQ on kebab meat: europarl.europa.eu