skewer

A skewer is a long, slender rod used to hold pieces of food together for cooking or serving. Skewers are commonly made from metal (such as stainless steel or iron) or wood (typically bamboo or hardwood). Metal skewers can be round or flat; flat skewers help prevent meat and vegetables from turning during grilling.

Wooden skewers are usually soaked in water before use to slow burning and charring during cooking. Metal skewers are reusable and easy to clean, while wooden skewers are typically discarded after a single use. Skewers may be seasoned or plain, and they can be used with or without a marinade.

Skewers are central to many dishes around the world. They are used for grilling kebabs, such as shish kebab in Middle Eastern and Turkish cuisines, and satay in Southeast Asia. In Japan, yakitori refers to skewered and grilled chicken, while skewered fruits and small cakes are common in various regional treats. The technique often involves threading evenly sized pieces onto the skewer, allowing space for heat to circulate and for even cooking. Marinades, oil brushing, and careful spacing help prevent drying and promote browning.

Safety and care: replace wrung-out or bent skewers, avoid handling hot skewers with bare hands, and use tongs or heat-resistant gloves. Properly prepared and handled skewers enable efficient cooking and attractive presentation.