Ever wondered why Shawarma and Kebab, despite being so similar, have different identities and origins? Sure, different nations can come up with numerous variants of the same type of dish and name it differently. But are Shawarma and Kebab different? Let’s settle, once and for all, in this article, this question of What’s the Difference between Shawarma and Kebab?
What is Shawarma?
Shawarma originated from the streets of Turkey, where it was originally called ‘Çevirme’ that literally translated t ‘Turning’. Eventually, this dish made it to the Middle East, where its name evolved to ‘Shawarma’. Shawarma is characterized by thin marinated slices of meat stacked vertically in an inverted cone on a vertical spit. It is roasted by slowly turning the spit near fire.
What is Kebab?
Kebab originated in the Middle East, and the word is thought to have originated from the Aramaic word ‘Kabab’ which literally translates to ‘char or burn’. Kebab is prepared by grounding the meat and forming into shape, then either frying or cooking on the grill or tandoor until the surface is charred, giving it its characteristic smoky flavor.
The preparation
Shawarma
The meat is not thinly curled and marinated just enough to give it a zesty flavor and to get rid of the smell. The marinade is kept simple and light, usually using all-spice and yoghurt, since the goal is to retain the natural flavor and texture of the meat. After marinating the meat, it roasted slowly on a spinning vertical rotisserie. This slow-cooking method allows the meat to baste in its own juices and fat, thereby retaining its natural flavor and texture.
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Kebab
Kebab, on the other hand, is characterized by bold and smoky flavors. It is prepared by marinating the ground beef using ingredients like all spice, paprika, yoghurt, cumin, garlic, etc. The reason of the intense and complex flavor lies behind the fact that the meat is ground so that the marinade is absorbed in every part of the Kebab. Once Kebab is marinated, it is cooked in a relatively high flame either by grilling or frying until the surface is charred.
If you’re searching for “Kebab near me,” you’re likely to find delicious kebabs prepared using these traditional methods, delivering an authentic and traditional style experience every time in Pennsylvania at Shawarma Kebab.
Type of meat used
Traditionally, Shawarma consists of lamb or mutton meat. In modern times, chicken, turkey, is also used. On the other hand, Kebab is traditionally made with lamb and mutton meat; however, in the modern version, chicken, beef, seafood, and even pork are used.
The garnish
Shawarma, due to the relatively simple and natural meat flavor, is often served with thinly sliced carrots, cucumber, turnips, tomatoes, and onions. What hikes up the flavor is the sauce that is used. Traditionally, Tahini is used especially in the Middle East; however, more than one kind of sauces are also often used to lift the flavor.
Kebab is also served with similar garnish; however, due to its intense flavor, the sauce is usually kept simple and is often yogurt-based.
For those looking up Shawarma near me or Kebab near me, you’ll discover Shawarma Kebab in WEST CHESTER.PA stays true to these traditional methods, with meat marinated and roasted slowly for an authentic taste.
The serving
Shawarma can be eaten as it is or served with pita that wraps all the contents securely, thereby serving a mouthful of different flavors and textures. Kebab, on the other hand, is usually served on a plate with or without skewers. However, pita or paratha is often served separately with sauces.
Final word
Shawarma and kebab are an example of how cooking style influences the overall flavor and texture profile of any dish. Though these two dishes originate from the areas within or near Asia, they have made their distinct place in people’s minds. Both are highly sought after and differentiated from each other. If you bite into a chicken shawarma and chicken kebab alternatively, you will get entirely different experiences with each bite.
This goes without saying that these two dishes do not compete with each other since they have their own differentiated identity. Whether you search for Shawarma vs Kebab, Chicken Shawarma vs Chicken Kebab, Doner Kebab vs Shawarma, you will find that the only difference lies in the preparation process, garnish, and serving style.
