Bamboo skewers are thin, rigid sticks made from bamboo, used to hold pieces of food together for grilling, broiling, or serving, particularly in dishes like Japanese yakitori, Southeast Asian satay, and Middle Eastern kebabs. They're valued for being inexpensive, disposable, and heat-resistant enough for grilling, though they should be soaked in water for 20 to 30 minutes before use to keep them from scorching or catching fire over direct heat. Bamboo skewers are also used decoratively for appetizers and canapes, where their length lets several bite-sized items be threaded and served together.