Meat grilled on a stick, sometimes supported on the rails of a grateless grill called a mangal, was the first great technological leap forward in the evolution of the art of grilling. Today, the popularity of kebabs around Planet Barbecue attests to their universal appeal.
After all, they’re economical, versatile, infinitely customizable, and quick-cooking, making them ideal for frugal winter grillers who want to limit their exposure to frigid weather and high prices. Kebabs are also perfect for small intimate get-togethers in the era of Covid and social distancing; each guest can cook their own food according to taste. If weather permits, you could even move the party outdoors. My wife and I like to set up a hibachi on a heatproof surface so each guest can cook their own food. A variety of meats and vegetables give them the ability to assemble their own combination of ingredients.
Kebabs consist of cut up or ground meat, sometimes with vegetables and various other accompaniments according to the specific recipe. Although kebabs are typically cooked on a skewer over a fire, some kebab dishes are oven-baked in a pan, or prepared as a stew such as tas kebab.
Lula or Lyulya
The ground lamb kebabs of the Caucasus Mountain region and the central Asian republics of the Soviet Union.
Small Spanish kebabs, often made with pork, served in tapas bars. Pinchos is also a general term for tapas.
Tiny kebabs of chicken, pork, beef, or other meats grilled on bamboo skewers over a charcoal fire and commonly served with a peanut sauce.
The Russian and Baltic version of shish kebab, commonly made with pork, beef, or lamb and marinated in breath-wilting doses of onion.
The most famous of the world’s kebabs and a specialty of Turkey. Lamb is the most common meat, sometimes cut into chunks or minced and molded onto a flat skewer.
A traditional Greek dish featuring lamb and often served on pita with a yogurt and cucumber sauce called tzatziki.
Italian kebabs made with everything from pork to sausage to exotic game birds. Often pre-skewered and pre-marinated at Italian butcher shops.
West African kebabs flavored with ground peanuts and hot peppers. Usually made with beef, but other meats are used, too.
Very small chicken kebabs, glazed with a sweet soy dipping sauce, are popular in Japan, my birthplace. Japanese grill masters use every imaginable cut of chicken, from white and dark meat, wings, and skin, to liver, gizzard, and even embryonic eggs.
13 Skewer and Kebabs from Around the World
Below is a guide to many of the world’s skewered foods as well as tips for enjoying “stick meat.”
No visit to Lima would be complete without sampling a kebab that’s both an everyday snack and a Peruvian national obsession—anticuchos. The traditional meat is beef heart. But feel free to use rib eye or sirloin. Don’t skip the fiery yellow chile sauce.
A French kebab, a brochette can feature beef, pork, chicken, seafood, or vegetables. The term is also used in former French colonies such as Morocco and Mauritius Island.
Literally “sword meat,” these kebabs—typically beef—are grilled on bay leaf branches and are a specialty of the Portuguese island of Madeira.
Ground lamb kebabs popular in the Middle East.
Grilled Vegetable Kabobs
FAQ
What is meat on a stick called?
What do you call food on a skewer?
What is a stick with food on it called?
What do you call veggies on a stick?
What is chicken on a stick?
Chicken on a Stick is a fun and easy recipe that the whole family will enjoy. The chicken skewers are marinated in a flavorful teriyaki sauce, grilled to perfection, and served with a delicious sauce for dipping. It’s a tasty and budget-friendly alternative to takeout. Soak the wooden skewers before grilling to prevent burning.
What are beef sticks?
Beef Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that can be enjoyed by all. Made with fresh beef chuck and a blend of basic spices, these sticks offer a balanced flavor without being overly acidic. The addition of fermento adds a subtle tang, enhancing the taste profile.
What kind of food can you eat on a stick?
Nowadays, you can enjoy just about any kind of food on a stick, whether it’s pork chops, a classic corn dog, or even a stick of fried butter. Skewered food is in a world of its own—it has its own rules of food etiquette, along with countless recipes to try.