Introduction to Doner Kebab and the History of Turkish Doner

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Introduction to Doner Kebab and the History of Turkish Doner

Doner Kebab (Döner Kebab) is one of the most famous and popular street foods in Turkey and many other countries. This delicious dish has become one of the top choices around the world due to its unique flavor, distinct cooking method, and adaptability to different tastes. In this article, experts from the best kebab restaurant in Rasht introduce Doner Kebab and the history of Turkish Doner. Stay with us to learn more.

The History of Doner Kebab

Doner Kebab has its roots in Turkish history, and in the Turkish language, “döner” means “to turn” or “to rotate.” This name refers to its special cooking method, in which the meat is rotated on a vertical spit so it cooks evenly. Doner Kebab was originally introduced to the world by the Ottomans, but according to information from experts at the best kebab restaurant in Rasht, it is estimated that the original form of this dish emerged in Istanbul in the late 19th century.

Some chefs from the best kebab restaurant in Rasht believe that for the first time in the 1830s, an Ottoman chef named İskender Efendi used the idea of cooking meat on a vertical skewer. He was the first to rotate the meat vertically and cook it using direct heat. This method quickly gained popularity throughout the Ottoman Empire and spread to other Middle Eastern and European countries.

Types of Doner Kebab

According to experts from the best kebab restaurant in Rasht, Doner Kebab can be prepared in several different ways, depending on the type of meat, added ingredients, and serving method. The main types of Doner Kebab include:

• Beef Doner: In this version, beef is used for the kebab. The meat is usually layered thinly and densely on the skewer.
• Chicken Doner: This type of kebab, often popular among those who don’t prefer red meat, is made with chicken. The chicken is typically seasoned with special spices and cooked on the rotating spit.
• Lamb Doner: This type, which is popular in certain areas of Turkey and the Middle East, is made from lamb. Lamb meat has a distinct and milder flavor compared to other types of meat.
• Vegetarian Doner: Due to increasing demand for plant-based foods, some Doner vendors now offer a vegetarian version of this dish using ingredients such as vegetables, tofu, or falafel.

Turkish Doner Kebab is prepared using a truly unique method. Unlike other types of kebabs that are cooked over fire or in the oven, in Doner Kebab the meat is placed vertically on a large skewer and continuously rotates during the cooking process so that the meat is evenly cooked on all sides. The meat is usually lamb, beef, or chicken, which is sliced into thin layers and stacked on top of each other. These layers slowly cook over the heat until they reach the desired taste and texture.

One of the interesting points mentioned by the best kebab shop in Rasht is that during cooking, the fat of the meat usually melts gradually and penetrates into the meat, making it very delicious and juicy. Additionally, various meats are typically prepared with vegetables, spices, and sometimes other ingredients like special sauces, which enhance the final flavor and add more variety to the dish.

Doner Kebab in Different Countries

Although Doner Kebab has its roots in Turkey, this dish is prepared and served in different ways in many countries around the world. Specifically, in European countries, especially Germany, Doner Kebab has become a very popular street food. In Germany, Doner Kebab is usually served in pita bread or lavash bread with various sauces such as yogurt sauce and tahini sauce. It has become so popular that some Germans refer to it as “Fast Food National.”

In other countries like Greece and Macedonia, there are similar versions of Doner Kebab called “Gyro” and “Chorika.” The main difference is that in these countries, instead of chicken or beef, pork is more commonly used.

Factors That Can Affect the Price of Doner Kebab

• Type of meat: Using beef, chicken, lamb, or a combination of them can affect prices. Lamb is usually more expensive than beef.
• Size and type of bread: Some restaurants use special or homemade bread, which may affect the price.
• Place of sale: In densely populated or touristy areas, prices are generally higher.
• Type of sauce and additional ingredients: Special sauces or unique add-ons may increase the price.

Overall, the price of Turkish Doner Kebab in Iran may have changed slightly in recent years due to economic fluctuations and the rising cost of raw materials. However, it still remains one of the most popular and affordable foods.

Characteristics of Turkish Doner Kebab

According to the best kebab shops in Rasht, the characteristics of Turkish Doner Kebab may vary slightly depending on local tastes and the specific principles of each kebab shop in the Rasht region. However, in general, the features of this type of kebab are as follows:

• High-Quality Meat: One of the key characteristics of Doner is the use of fresh, high-quality meat. In the best kebab restaurant in Rasht, lamb or a combination of beef and lamb is chosen for better flavor and tenderness. Some kebab shops may also use fresh chicken meat seasoned with special spices.
• Special Spices: This kebab typically uses unique spices that distinguish its flavor. In addition to main spices like saffron, cumin, and black pepper, other spices such as cinnamon, garlic powder, and coriander powder may also be used to give the meat a distinctive and special taste.
• Traditional Cooking Method: In this method, great attention is paid to the way Doner is cooked. The meat is placed on a vertical skewer and slowly cooked over a flame or gentle heat for an extended period. This cooking method makes the meat very tender and juicy.

Other Features of Turkish Doner

• Special Condiments and Sauces: Turkish Doner Kebab is usually served with unique condiments and sauces such as yogurt sauce and spicy sauces that enhance the flavor of the kebab. In some kebab shops, their own special sauces are used, which may include a mix of tahini sauce, chili sauce, and even garlic sauce.
• Fresh Vegetables: Fresh and high-quality vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions are served alongside Doner. These vegetables add freshness to the dish and create a good balance with the meaty flavor of Doner.
• High-Quality Bread: The bread used is usually fresh and soft. Lavash bread or pita bread, which is served warm and fresh in some restaurants, is an important aspect of serving Doner. Quality bread adds a tender taste to the Doner and, together with the meat and sauces, creates a unique combination.
• Quick and Fresh Serving: One of the features of the best kebab shops in Rasht is that most of them prioritize fast and high-quality service. This means that Doner meat is served hot and fresh, maintaining its flavor and texture.

Variety in Sandwich or Plate Options

In the best kebab shops in Rasht, Doner is served either as a sandwich in bread or on a plate with rice or French fries. This variety allows customers to choose how they want their meal served, based on their personal preferences.