From Rotterdam with love: The simple joy of homemade kapsalon

Although kebabs are widely available, even in small towns, there’s something special about making them at home. The Dutch version of this dish is quick, easy, and utterly delicious.

Kapsalon, a dish pioneered by a barber in Rotterdam, is both satisfying and ideal for a quick meal during a work break. It has roots in fast food and shares similarities with kebab and gyros, yet its preparation is far more straightforward.

This dish is a symphony of flavours: crispy fries paired with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and vibrant fresh vegetables, all crowned with a fragrant sauce. This homemade version is a healthier alternative to store-bought options, whether prepared in a large casserole dish or disposable cake tins. Opt for fresh, seasonal vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes for the best experience. A casserole kebab with cheese will surely be a hit with kids, too.

Ingredients:

• 5-6 potatoes,
• 2 chicken breasts,
• 250 g of Gouda cheese,
• a few radishes,
• 1 cucumber,
• 2 tomatoes,
• 1 onion (or 2 shallots),
• 1 medium-sized Chinese cabbage,
• kebab seasoning, salt, and pepper.

For the sauce:

• 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise,
• 3 tablespoons of Greek yoghurt,
• 1 clove of garlic,
• ketchup,
• a few sprigs of chives or dill,
• salt and pepper - to taste.

How to prepare:

1. Clean and cube the chicken breast, then season generously with the spices. Set aside to marinate.
2. Prepare the vegetables: shred the Chinese cabbage, slice the radishes, cucumber, and onion, quarter the tomatoes, and remove the seeds.
3. Grate the cheese using the coarse side of the grater. Set aside.
4. For the fries, cut the potatoes and rinse them several times with cold water before drying. Fry until golden brown. In another pan, quickly fry the chicken cubes.
5. Layer the chicken and fries in a baking dish, then cover with cheese. Bake in an oven preheated to 200°C for a few minutes, using the grilling function, until the cheese has melted.
6. Combine all the sauce ingredients, adding finely chopped chives or dill.
7. Finish by layering fresh vegetables over the baked chicken and fries, then drizzle with sauce.