World Kebab Day, observed on July 12 each year, celebrates the beloved culinary delight known as kebab, enjoyed across various cultures and regions worldwide. Kebabs, originating from the Middle East but now embraced globally, typically consist of marinated and skewered pieces of meat (such as lamb, chicken, beef, or even fish) grilled to perfection. The marinades vary widely, incorporating spices, herbs, and sometimes yoghurt or citrus juices, imparting rich flavours and tenderness to the meat. As you observe World Kebab Day 2024, we at LatestLY have compiled a collection of five famous types of kebabs from around the world, each renowned for its unique flavours and cultural significance.

On World Kebab Day, restaurants, food enthusiasts, and communities come together to honour this flavourful dish. Festivities often include special menus showcasing diverse kebab varieties, from traditional recipes to innovative twists. Kebab festivals, cooking demonstrations, and competitions may also be held, highlighting the cultural significance and culinary artistry associated with kebabs. Whether enjoyed on the streets of Istanbul, at a barbecue in Australia, or in a fine dining establishment in London, kebabs continue to unite people through their delicious taste and shared appreciation for grilled meats and vibrant flavours.

1. Shish Kebab (Turkey)

Perhaps the most well-known type of kebab globally, shish kebab consists of skewered and grilled cubes of marinated meat, typically lamb or beef. It's often served with rice, vegetables, and a side of a yoghurt-based sauce like tzatziki.

Shish Kebab (Photo Credits: NeedPix)

2. Tandoori Chicken (India)

Tandoori Chicken is a popular Indian kebab in which chicken pieces are marinated in a mixture of yoghurt and spices, including turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. The meat is then cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), resulting in smoky, tender meat with a vibrant red colour.

Tandoori Chicken (Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons)

3. Adana Kebab (Turkey)

Named after the city of Adana in Turkey, this kebab features minced lamb or beef mixed with spices like paprika and chilli flakes. The meat is melded onto skewers and grilled, served with flatbread, salad, and sometimes grilled vegetables.

Adana Kebab (Photo Credits: NeedPix)

4. Souvlaki (Greece)

Souvlaki consists of small pieces of meat, often pork or chicken, marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like oregano. They are skewered and grilled, served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.

Souvlaki (Photo Credits: NeedPix)

5. Seekh Kebab (South Asia)

Seekh Kebabs are popular in South Asian cuisine, particularly in India and Pakistan. They are made from minced meat (often lamb or beef) mixed with spices and shaped onto skewers. Grilled over charcoal or in a tandoor, they are served with naan bread or rice and chutney.

Seekh Kebab (Photo Credits: Flickr)

These kebabs showcase the diversity of flavours and cooking techniques associated with this beloved dish, demonstrating its global appeal and cultural significance in various culinary traditions. Wishing everyone a Happy World Kebab Day 2024.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 11, 2024 01:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).