Shawarma vs. Kebab: What’s the Difference?
Two of the most famous Pakistani foods worldwide are shawarma and kebab. These two savory meat dishes leave people's mouths craving for more because of their excellent taste and healthy ingredients. However, what's the difference between shawarma and kebab?
If you're one of the fans who cannot differentiate the two, don’t worry; you're not alone in this boat. Because of their taste, many people going to Pakistani restaurants have the misconception that shawarma and kebab are two similar things. However, they are pretty different from each other!
Here are some noteworthy distinctions between shawarma and kebabs that you might find interesting.
What Is a Shawarma?
Shawarma is a dish that originated in the Ottoman Empire. It is made with thinly sliced meat—usually lamb or chicken—cooked on a rotating spit. The meat is then skimmed off the spit and served on a pita or flatbread. Shawarma can be topped with various condiments, such as tahini, hummus, or pickled vegetables.
What Is a Kebab?
Kebabs are a delicious and popular dish from the Middle East that can be made with various types of meat. Lamb and chicken are the most common, but you can also use beef, pork, or fish. The meat is skewered onto metal or wooden skewers and then grilled or roasted over a fire or hot coals.
Once the meat is cooked, it is usually served with rice or bread. You can also do it with various vegetables, such as onions, tomatoes, and peppers.
The Key Similarities of Shawarma and Kebab
One of the main similarities between kebab and shawarma is that they're both meat dishes in the Middle East. Furthermore, they are cooked similarly and are always served as sandwiches or wraps. In addition, kebab and shawarma both use lamb meat, although other types of meat can be used for either dish. Finally, they are usually served with various toppings and sauces.
The Main Difference Between Shawarma and Kebab
Definition - Shawarma uses thinly sliced meats while kebab uses ground meat.
Cooking Preparation - When making shawarma, meat layers are stacked in a rotisserie and are slowly grilled to perfection. Once done, the meat is shaved off the spit and served on a pita or flatbread. On the other hand, kebabs are typically roasted on a skewer. Sometimes, kebab can be made as a stew.
Origin - Shawarma is derived from the Turkish word çevirme, which means “turning.” Kebab, on the other hand, is believed to have originated in 18th-century Ottoman Turkey.
Ingredients - Shawarma is made with lamb, chicken, or beef, whereas kebabs are usually made with ground lamb, beef, or chicken.
Shape - Shawarma is usually served as a wrap or in a pita. On the other hand, kebabs are served on a skewer.
Spices - Shawarma is usually flavored with Middle Eastern spices such as cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Kebabs are traditionally flavored with Indian spices such as garam masala, turmeric, and cumin.
Sauces - Shawarma is usually served with tahini sauce, hummus, or tzatziki sauce. Meanwhile, kebabs are generally served with chutney or yogurt sauce.
Taste - Shawarma has a more distinct flavor since the meats are layered and grilled slowly. Kebabs have a more subtle flavor since the meats are grilled on skewers.
Final Thoughts
Shawarma and kebab refer to Middle Eastern dishes that consist of meat cooked on a skewer and served with bread or rice. They are similar in many aspects but also have some key differences. The next time you visit a Pakistani restaurant, take your time to sample the shawarma and the kebab. You may find that you go for one over the other or enjoy both equally!
Karakoram is one of the best Pakistani restaurants in Vancouver that serves delicious and authentic shawarma and kebab for your cravings. Our extensive range of Pakistani dishes lets you experience the flavors of the Middle East. Eat with us today!