World Kebab Day - Second Friday of July

Kebabs are enjoyed by many people around the world, and there is even a special day to celebrate them! World Kebab Day is an exciting event for food lovers, especially those who enjoy the rich flavours of Turkish cuisine.

World Kebab Day is celebrated on the second Friday of July each year. In 2024, this delicious day will be on July 12. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy some tasty kebabs with family and friends, whether you prefer to grill them at home or try them at your favourite restaurant.

Kebabs come in many different forms and flavours. Here are a few unique recipes you can try to make your World Kebab Day celebration special:

1.  Adana Kebab: This spicy minced meat kebab comes from the Adana region in Turkey. It is made with ground lamb or beef, mixed with red pepper flakes, and grilled on skewers. Serve it with pita bread, fresh tomatoes, and onions.

2.  Shish Kebab: A classic kebab recipe, Shish Kebab is made with chunks of marinated lamb or chicken, skewered with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Grill them until they are perfectly cooked and juicy.

3.  Iskender Kebab: Named after Alexander the Great, Iskender Kebab is a popular dish in Turkey. It consists of thinly sliced lamb or beef, served on a bed of pita bread, topped with tomato sauce and melted butter, and accompanied by yogurt.

4.  Vegetarian Kebab: For those who prefer a meat-free option, a vegetarian kebab can be just as delicious. Use a variety of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Marinate them in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling.

5.  Kofta Kebab: Made with ground meat mixed with spices, herbs, and onions, Kofta Kebab is shaped into small patties or balls and grilled on skewers. Serve them with a side of hummus or tzatziki sauce.

 

The History of Famous Turkish Kebab

The word "kebab" is derived from the Arabic word "kabāb," which means "to roast." Kebabs have a long and rich history, particularly in Turkish cuisine. The origins of kebabs can be traced back to ancient times when soldiers would cook meat over open flames on their swords.

In Turkey, kebabs have evolved into a wide variety of dishes, each with its own unique preparation and flavour. The tradition of kebabs in Turkey dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where they were enjoyed by sultans and commoners alike.

One of the most famous types of Turkish kebab is the Doner Kebab, which is made by stacking marinated meat on a vertical rotisserie. As the meat cooks, it is sliced off and served in pita bread or flatbreads, often with fresh vegetables and sauces. Doner Kebab has become popular worldwide and can be found in many countries.

Another beloved Turkish kebab is the Kebapci, which refers to the many small kebab restaurants found throughout Turkey. These establishments specialise in various types of kebabs, often served with traditional sides like rice, salad, and flatbread.

Kebabs are not just a meal; they are a cultural experience that brings people together. Whether you are enjoying a simple skewer of grilled meat or a complex dish like Iskender Kebab, the flavours and aromas of Turkish kebabs are sure to delight your senses.

Celebrate World Kebab Day

World Kebab Day is a wonderful time to explore the diverse and delicious world of kebabs. Whether you are a fan of traditional recipes or looking to try something new, there is a kebab for everyone to enjoy.

Pani Puri Day

 

Fluffy, crispy, and filled to the brim with mouthwatering stuffing and sweet ‘n’ spicy water, pani puri (also known as golgappa and phuchka) is arguably the most popular street food in South Asia. In fact, Pani Puri has its own Day and it happens to be on July 12.

But why celebrate this scrumptious treat?

Well, it all began in the city of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, back in 2015. A restaurant called Indori Zayka set out on a flavourful mission aimed to achieve a World Record by offering 51 flavours of pani puri. That's right, 51! And they actually achieved it.

You could be wondering, how come the humble fluffy puri and even humbler pani joined hands to be South Asia's favourite snack?

The enigmatic snack perhaps holds more origin stories than fillings in its puri shells. It's like a chaotic party where everyone's got a different tale to tell, but no one can agree on the main course.

-    According to ancient legend, pani puri emerged during the time of the Mahabharat, when Draupadi faced her ultimate culinary challenge. With limited ingredients and a dash of creativity, she whipped up golgappa.

-   Impressed by the taste, her mother-in-law Kunti bestowed the snack with the gift of immortality.

-   And so, pani puri became a divine treat cherished by generations, as immortal as the laughter it brings.

-    On the other hand, some voices claim that pani puri has Mughal roots. Apparently, it sneaked its way into the royal kitchens during their rule in India.

-    The Mughals, unable to resist the burst of flavours, shared it with the masses. 

-    But let's not get too caught up in ancient tales and royal affairs. Renowned culinary anthropologist Kurush Dalal has his own spicy theory. He believes that a smaller Raj Kachori, stuffed with potatoes and saucy goodness, might just be the parent of our beloved pani puri.

 

 

 

Dada J P Vaswani's Death Anniversary

Jashan Pahlajrai Vaswani, better known as Dada Vaswani, who passed away on 12 July 2018, in Pune, Maharashtra, India, aged 99, was an Indian spiritual leader. He promoted vegetarianism and animal rights, and was the spiritual head at the Sadhu Vaswani Mission founded by his Guru, Sadhu Vaswani. The Mission, a non-profit organization headquartered in Pune, India has centres around the world. Vaswani authored about 150 self-help books in Sindhi and English.