What Vegetables Go Best on Shish Kabobs?
Shish kabobs are an Americanized version of a traditional Persian dish consisting of a combination of meat and vegetables roasted or grilled on skewers. Just about any lean cut of meat will do well on a shish kabob, but only certain vegetables are suitable for inclusion. These vegetables are hearty and fit securely on a skewer. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Onions
-
The pungent and fragrant smell and flavor of onions makes them ideal for use on shish kabobs. The natural sugars in the vegetable caramelize as the onion roasts and softens. Mild or sweet onions with a thick, solid flesh work best on shish kabobs. Red onions or any sweet-fleshed variety are preferable to white onions or scallions. In order to fit the onion onto skewers, do not cut it into rings. Cut the onion in half, then quarter each half and skewer the larger pieces. You can also use whole pearl or boiler onions that are small enough to skewer.
Peppers
-
Peppers, particularly bell peppers, are a common feature of vegetable shish kabobs. Peppers can either add sweetness or a bit of heat to a kabob. There is no need to blanch or peel the skin from the peppers; the skin will roast and soften so that it can be easily eaten. Seed the pepper and cut it into 1-inch squares. You can also use whole cherry peppers or any similar small pepper.
-
Mushrooms
-
Mushrooms have a wonderful flavor and meaty texture that works well on shish kabobs. White button mushrooms are most often used. They can be easily skewered whole or halved. Portobello mushrooms also work on kabobs, but must be cut into smaller pieces. Mushrooms can also be marinated in vinegar and olive oil before being skewered.
Tomatoes and Squash
-
Tomatoes and squash are often included on kabobs. Cherry tomatoes have a great flavor and pop in your mouth after being roasted. They should be skewered whole. Only small tomatoes -- cherry, grape or pear -- should be used for shish kabobs. Yellow squash adds tastes and color to shish kabobs. Squash should be cut into rounds before skewering.
-
References
- Photo Credit Goodshoot/Goodshoot/Getty Images
