The Art of Grilling Kababs: Tips, Techniques and Tasty Combos
There's something incredibly satisfying about grilling kebabs. The sizzle of the grill, the aroma of marinated meats and veggies, and the joy of sharing these skewered delights with friends and family. At Atlantic Outdoor, we're passionate about all things BBQ, and in this blog, we're going to dive into the wonderful world of grilling meat & veg on a stick! Grab your skewers and let's get started! We’ll share some tips on prep and cooking, ideas on what ingredients to combine, and what to use for seasoning!
The Basics of Kebab Making
Choosing Your Skewers
When it comes to kebabs, the type of skewer you use can make a big difference. Metal skewers are durable and reusable, while bamboo skewers are disposable and ideal for a quick cleanup. If you're using bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning - it will save you the panic of watching your skewers fall apart in front of you on the grill!
Preparing Your Ingredients
The beauty of kebabs lies in their versatility. You can use a variety of meats, seafood, vegetables, and even fruits. The key is to cut your ingredients into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. If ingredients have wildly different cook times, it can also be a good practice to place them on separate skewers of like ingredients so you can pull them from the grill when needed.
For marinating - the longer the better! If you’re able to prep your ingredients and get them marinating as early as the day before you cook, that’s fantastic. But if you only have time to let flavours marry for an hour or two before you fire up the grill, that’s okay, too!
Grilling Kebabs: Gas vs Charcoal
What type of fuel is best for cooking kebabs? The debate between gas and charcoal is a HEATED one.
Gas Grills
Gas grills offer convenience and control. They heat up quickly, maintain a steady temperature, and are easy to clean. This makes them ideal for grilling delicate ingredients like seafood and vegetables. You can churn out countless skewers in quick succession with consistent temperatures and you’ll still get some delicious char with the gas-powered flames.
Charcoal Grills
Charcoal grills, on the other hand, provide a distinctly unique and smoky flavour that's impossible to fully replicate with gas. They're perfect for grilling robust meats that can stand up to more intense heat and smoke. However, they require more time to heat up and more effort to keep running & clean.
Kebab Combos and Seasoning Ideas
Meat & Veggie Combos
When it comes to kebab combos, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few of our favourites:
Chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple for a tropical twist
Beef, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes for a classic combo
Shrimp, asparagus, zucchini, and lemon slices for a light and zesty option
Seasoning Options
The right seasoning can elevate your kebabs from good to great. Here are some ideas:
Our Sweet & Tangy Chicken & Rib Rub goes well on EVERYTHING and works super well as a dry rub for kebabs. Season liberally before adding any liquid marinade.
The bold flavour of our Steak Shake Rub will keep you coming back for more! It works well on cuts of beef and pork (or anything else, really).
A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works well with most ingredients.
For a Middle Eastern flair, try a marinade of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
For a sweet and spicy kick, try a glaze of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and chili flakes.
Conclusion
Grilling kebabs is an art, and like any art, it requires practice and creativity. With the range of possibilities, there’s no shortage of options to practice your grilling prowess on. Whether you’re cooking up a quiet meal or entertaining a large group, you can play with endless combinations of meat and veg for your kebabs. So fire up your grill, experiment with different combos and seasonings, and most importantly, have fun!
