Kebab vs shawarma — what’s the difference? Both are beloved Middle Eastern grilled meats. However, they are made in different ways. A kebab is usually grilled on a skewer. Shawarma is roasted on a turning spit and shaved into thin slices. In this guide, we explain the difference simply, and where doner fits in too.
Kebab vs shawarma: the quick answer
In short, the cooking method sets them apart. A kebab is grilled over direct heat, often on a skewer. Shawarma cooks slowly on a vertical rotisserie. Then it is shaved off in crisp slices. So the kebab vs shawarma difference comes down to how the meat is cooked.
What is a kebab?
A kebab is grilled or skewered meat, seasoned with spices. In fact, there are many kinds. For example, Adana kebab uses minced lamb on a flat skewer. Meanwhile, koobideh is a Persian minced kebab. So “kebab” is a broad family of grilled dishes.
What is shawarma?
Shawarma is spiced meat roasted on a vertical spit. As the outside crisps, cooks shave off thin slices. Then they wrap them in bread with garlic sauce and salad. So shawarma is usually served as a wrap or a plate.
What is doner?
Doner is the Turkish original that inspired shawarma. Like shawarma, it roasts on a turning vertical spit. In fact, the word doner means “turning” in Turkish. So doner and shawarma are close cousins with different spices.
Kebab vs shawarma: the key differences
So how do you tell them apart? A few key points:
- Cooking: kebabs grill on a skewer; shawarma roasts on a spit.
- Serving: kebabs come on a plate; shawarma often comes as a wrap.
- Cut: kebabs are whole or minced; shawarma is thin shaved slices.
- Sauce: kebabs pair with yoghurt or grilled veg; shawarma with garlic sauce.
So both are delicious, just made differently.
Which one should you try?
It depends on your mood. For a hearty grilled plate, choose a kebab. For a quick, savoury wrap, pick shawarma. Better yet, try both and compare. Now you know the kebab vs shawarma difference, so enjoy whichever you fancy.
Where to try them in Kuala Lumpur
Feeling hungry? Then come and taste both at Lalezar, a halal Turkish, Mediterranean and Persian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy charcoal kebabs and freshly wrapped shawarma. So explore the full Lalezar menu, or find your nearest branch. We welcome you across three locations: Ampang, USJ Heights and Centrepoint Bandar Utama.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between kebab and shawarma?
The cooking method. A kebab is grilled on a skewer, while shawarma is roasted on a turning spit and shaved into slices.
Is shawarma a type of kebab?
Loosely, yes. Shawarma comes from the doner kebab tradition. However, most people treat kebab and shawarma as separate dishes.
Which is healthier?
Both can be lean and halal. It depends on the meat, the portion and the sides you choose.