Grilled kebabs are a popular dish consisting of skewered and grilled meat, traditionally lamb or chicken, seasoned with a variety of spices. This versatile dish is enjoyed in various cultures worldwide and can be customized with different marinades and accompaniments. 

The origins of kebabs can be traced back to the Middle East, where nomadic tribes cooked meat over open fires on skewers. This method of cooking allowed for easy preparation and portable meals during long journeys. Over time, kebabs spread to other regions such as Central Asia, South Asia, and the Mediterranean, each adding their own unique flavors and ingredients to the dish. Today, kebabs are celebrated globally and have become a staple of barbecue cuisine, enjoyed by people of all backgrounds.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) boneless lamb or chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Method:

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.

2. Add the lamb or chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

4. Thread the marinated meat onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

5. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.

6. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

7. Serve the grilled kebabs hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, salad, or flatbread. Enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

1. Boneless Lamb or Chicken (450g):

  - Calories: Approximately 840-900 kcal for lamb, 550-600 kcal for chicken

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 100g for lamb, 110g for chicken

  - Fat: Approximately 45-55g for lamb, 25-30g for chicken

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation

  - Cholesterol: Varies based on preparation

  - Nutritional benefits: High-quality protein source, rich in essential amino acids, provides iron and B vitamins (especially vitamin B12).

2. Onion (1 medium, finely chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 45 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 11g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 5mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Good source of fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. Onions also contain prebiotic fibers that promote gut health.

3. Garlic (2 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: Approximately 10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.5g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains allicin, a compound with potential health benefits, including immune-boosting and heart-protective properties. Garlic also provides small amounts of vitamins C and B6.

4. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 240 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 28g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which may help lower the risk of heart disease. Olive oil also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

5. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.5g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.5g

  - Sodium: Approximately 10mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. Cumin is also a good source of iron and may aid digestion.

6. Paprika (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.3g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.3g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains vitamin A, vitamin E, and antioxidants like carotenoids. Paprika may have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

7. Ground Coriander (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 4 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.1g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains antioxidants, dietary fiber, and minerals like manganese, iron, and magnesium. Coriander may also have digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.

8. Salt and Pepper (to taste):

  - Sodium: Varies based on amount used

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Salt provides essential electrolytes like sodium and chloride, necessary for fluid balance and nerve function. Pepper contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

9. Wooden Skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes):

  - No significant nutritional value, but soaking in water helps prevent them from burning during grilling, ensuring safe cooking.

Overall, this kebab recipe provides a balance of protein, healthy fats, and a variety of essential nutrients from the meat, vegetables, and spices used.