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Throughout the years, shish kabobs have become one of the most well-known Persian foods. This dish features skewered, grilled meats and vegetables, served with a variety of sides such as basmati rice, pita bread, salad, and hummus. The fascinating history of shish kabobs has evolved over time, spanning several cultures. 

A Brief History of Shish Kabobs

Origins & Etymology

The term “shish kabob” is derived from the Turkish words "şiş," meaning sword or skewer, and "kebap," meaning roast meat. During the Turkish invasion of Anatolia in 1071 A.D., soldiers skewered meat with their swords, roasting it over an open fire. Prior to becoming a popular Persian food, the Persians were simply looking for a way to cook their meat in small chunks that they were able to eat without their hands. By skewering the meat before grilling it, they were able to keep their hands clean, effectively avoiding getting their wine glasses greasy. Additionally, cooking kabobs was quick, helping them conserve the amount of fuel needed for a fire. 

Evolution 

Whenkebob the Turks introduced shish kabobs to Greece in the 1900s, the complexity of the dish grew. Rather than skewering only meat, the Greeks added onions, tomatoes, and pepper chunks. By the 1960s, Greece had become a popular tourist destination, making Greek culture more familiar to Americans. As a result, these meat and vegetable kabobs became a staple at backyard cookouts. 

Variations on Tradition 

Traditionally, kabobs featured lamb or mutton, but pork, beef, chicken, and seafood are now just as common. As the kabob traveled east, it changed significantly. In Indonesia, it evolved into satay, which features grilled chicken or beef skewers, served with a spicy peanut sauce. In Nigeria, it became suya, which are flat and elongated pieces of beef or lamb cooked over charcoal and topped with crushed peanuts. And in Japan, it transformed into yakitori, which is a blanket term for any meat or vegetable cooked on a stick and served with soy sauce.

 

The next time you have a craving for shish kabobs, bring your friends and family to dinner at Sufi Kitchen. Serving hungry patrons throughout Atlanta, GA, this Mediterranean restaurant offers Persian food, including kabobs, hummus, falafel, dolmeh, lamb shank, fesenjoon, and baklava. To make a reservation, or place an order for carryout, call (404) 888-9699. Visit their website to browse the menu and learn more about their catering services. 

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