Kabob vs. Kebab — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 7, 2023
Kabob and Kebab refer to the same grilled or skewered meat dish, but "Kabob" is the Americanized spelling, while "Kebab" is the original and internationally used term.
Difference Between Kabob and Kebab
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Key Differences
Kabob is essentially an Americanized term for skewered meat, usually accompanied by vegetables. Kebab, on the other hand, is the traditional term originating from Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines, referring to the same style of cooked meat.
While the basic preparation methods of skewering and grilling meat remain the same, the spelling "Kabob" is primarily used in American English. Kebab is the spelling more commonly found in the UK, Europe, and other parts of the world, especially where the dish has its roots.
The terms Kabob and Kebab may refer to a variety of meat, including beef, chicken, or lamb, and the dish can be grilled or cooked in an oven. In both cases, the meat is often marinated for flavor. However, the American "Kabob" sometimes involves a fusion of styles, incorporating non-traditional ingredients or sauces.
Both Kabob and Kebab have evolved to include vegetarian and even dessert versions. Yet, irrespective of the ingredients used, the term "Kebab" is often considered more authentic and traditional, while "Kabob" is seen as a westernized adaptation of the dish.
Comparison Chart
Spelling
Americanized
Original
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Geographic Use
Primarily in America
Internationally recognized
Authenticity
Seen as Westernized
Considered more authentic
Ingredients
Sometimes non-traditional
Usually traditional
Cultural Origin
Adapted for American tastes
Middle Eastern, South Asian origins
Compare with Definitions
Kabob
Kabob is skewered meat often grilled.
We made chicken kabobs for the barbecue.
Kebab
Kebab is a traditional grilled meat dish.
We ordered lamb kebabs at the Persian restaurant.
Kabob
Kabob can include vegetables along with meat.
The vegetable kabob is a hit among vegetarians.
Kebab
Kebab often involves marinating the meat.
The kebab was flavorful thanks to the marinade.
Kabob
Kabob is the Americanized term for Kebab.
You'll find kabob listed on most American menus.
Kebab
Kebab can also be served in a flatbread wrap.
He had a kebab wrap for a quick lunch.
Kabob
Kabob can be cooked in an oven or on a grill.
She cooked the kabobs in the oven due to bad weather.
Kebab
Kebab is commonly found in Middle Eastern cuisine.
Kebab is a staple in Middle Eastern diets.
Kabob
Kabob can be marinated in various sauces.
I prefer my kabobs marinated in a spicy sauce.
Kebab
Kebab is the original term for skewered meat.
The term kebab is recognized internationally.
Kabob
Variant of kebab.
Kebab
Kebabs are various cooked meat dishes with their origins in Middle Eastern cuisine. Numerous variants are popular around the world.
Kabob
Alternative spelling of kebab
Kebab
A dish of pieces of meat, fish, or vegetables roasted or grilled on a skewer or spit.
Kabob
Alternative spelling of kebab
Kebab
Shish kebab.
Kabob
Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a skewer usually with vegetables
Kebab
(British) A dish of pieces of meat, fish, or vegetables roasted on a skewer or spit, especially a doner kebab.
Kebab
(AU) A hand-held dish consisting of pieces of meat roasted on an upright skewer mixed with fresh vegetables and sauces and rolled up in a round piece of unleavened bread.
Kebab
(US) A shish kebab or any other food on a skewer.
Kebab
A restaurant that sells kebabs
Let's go to the kebab after the club.
Kebab
(chemistry) The outward growing portions of a shish kebab structure.
Kebab
A Muslim, usually of southern European, Middle Eastern, or North African descent.
Kebab
The vulva.
Kebab
(GUI) menu icon of three vertical dots
Kebab
(transitive) To roast in the style of a kebab
Kebab
To stab or skewer
Kebab
See kabab and kabob.
Kebab
Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a skewer usually with vegetables
Common Curiosities
Is Kabob the same as Kebab?
Essentially yes, but "Kabob" is the Americanized term while "Kebab" is the traditional term.
Is Kabob uniquely American?
The term "Kabob" is primarily used in American English.
What is Kabob?
Kabob refers to skewered and usually grilled meat, often with vegetables.
Is a Kebab always grilled?
Usually, but kebabs can also be cooked in an oven.
Can a Kabob include vegetables?
Yes, kabobs often include skewered vegetables.
Is marination necessary for Kebab?
Marination is common but not absolutely necessary.
Do Kebabs have to be made of meat?
Traditional kebabs are meat-based, but vegetarian versions exist.
Are Kebabs only eaten in Middle Eastern countries?
No, kebabs are popular worldwide, especially in countries with Middle Eastern or South Asian communities.
What is Kebab?
Kebab is a traditional dish of skewered, marinated meat, often grilled.
Where did the term Kebab originate?
Kebab originates from Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines.
What meats are commonly used for Kabob?
Chicken, beef, and lamb are often used for kabobs.
Can Kebab be spicy?
Kebabs can be spicy, depending on the marinade.
Is Kabob considered fast food in America?
Kabob is often seen as a healthier alternative to traditional American fast foods.
Is Kabob a main course?
Kabob is often served as a main course but can be an appetizer.
Is there a difference in the sauces used for Kabob and Kebab?
Kabob may use a wider variety of sauces, reflecting American tastes, while kebab sauces tend to be more traditional.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
