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Shish taouk facts for kids

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Shish taouk
Tavuk şiş.jpg
Shish taouk

Shish taouk (say "sheesh tah-wook") is a yummy dish made from marinated chicken. It's a type of kebab that comes from the old Ottoman Empire. Today, people enjoy it all over the Middle East and the Caucasus region. You can often find it in kebab restaurants around the world. A similar dish in Iran is called jujeh kabab.

What's in a Name?

The name "Shish taouk" tells you what the dish is.

  • The word shish means "skewer" in Turkish and some Arabic languages.
  • The word tavuk means "chicken" in old Turkic languages.

So, "Shish taouk" simply means "chicken on a skewer."

How Shish Taouk is Made

Making shish taouk starts with cutting chicken into small cubes. These chicken pieces are then soaked in a special mixture called a marinade. Common marinades use yogurt and lemon juice. Sometimes, tomato paste is also used to give it flavor and color. After marinating, the chicken cubes are put onto skewers. Finally, the skewered chicken is cooked, usually by grilling.

Ways to Enjoy Shish Taouk

Shish taouk can be eaten in different ways, depending on where you are.

Serving in Turkey

In Turkey, shish taouk is often served on a plate. It usually comes with rice, a refreshing cucumber salad, and grilled vegetables. A side of yogurt is also a common addition.

Serving in the Middle East

In Syria and Lebanon, shish taouk is very popular. It's often served with toum, which is a creamy garlic sauce. Other common sides include hummus (a chickpea dip) and tabbouleh salad. Sometimes, it's put inside a flatbread or a dürüm (a type of wrap). This sandwich version often has lettuce, tomatoes, and pickled turnips.

Serving in Israel

In Israel, shish taouk is served with a special tahini sauce. This tahini is often flavored with sumac, a tangy spice. It also comes with fried onions, flatbread or pita bread, and grilled chili peppers. Sides like tabbouleh or Israeli salad and various pickles are also common.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Shish taouk para niños

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