Beef Kabob Plate
Charbroiled marinated beef kabob served with rice, salad, and pita bread.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Panini Kabob Grill
Kabobs, or grilled meats on skewers, have ancient roots in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. Evidence suggests that early forms of kabobs were prepared by nomadic tribes, using swords or spears to cook meat over open fires. Over centuries, variations of kabobs spread across the globe, adapting to local ingredients and culinary traditions.
The Beef Kabob Plate is not just a meal; it's a cultural staple often enjoyed during social gatherings, celebrations, and family meals across the Middle East and its diaspora.
Hospitality and Sharing
Kabobs are often served family-style, emphasizing sharing and communal dining. It's a symbol of hospitality and generosity, inviting guests to partake in a flavorful and abundant meal.
Celebratory Dish
Kabobs are frequently prepared for special occasions like Eid, weddings, and birthdays, representing a festive and joyous atmosphere.
Regional Variations
While the core concept remains similar, different regions and families have their own variations of kabobs, reflecting local spices, marinades, and serving styles.
The Beef Kabob Plate offers a savory and aromatic experience, balancing tender, marinated beef with the freshness of salad, the fluffiness of rice, and the soft, warm pita bread.
The star of the dish is the beef, typically marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, onions, and spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and sometimes chili flakes for a hint of heat. This marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with rich, complex flavors. Charbroiling the marinated beef creates a delicious smoky crust while keeping the inside juicy. The rice, often basmati, provides a neutral base to complement the richness of the beef. The salad, typically a mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, parsley, and sometimes lettuce, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, offers a refreshing counterpoint. The pita bread is perfect for scooping up the beef, rice, and salad or enjoying on its own.
Marinating Time
Allow ample marinating time (at least 4 hours, preferably overnight) for the flavors to fully penetrate the beef.
Beef Cut Selection
Choose a tender cut of beef like sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye for the best results. Cut the beef into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
Charbroiling Technique
Don't overcrowd the skewers on the grill. Give each piece space for even cooking. Use medium-high heat for proper searing and preventing the beef from becoming tough.
Rice Preparation
Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains. Consider adding a pinch of saffron or turmeric for color and flavor.
Accompaniments
Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as tahini, hummus, or a yogurt-based sauce (tzatziki) to enhance the flavor profile.
Explore additional Kabob dishes and restaurants
Explore KabobDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Irvine.
Explore IrvineLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of United States.
Explore United States