Are you a foodie looking for the best halal street food around the world? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the top halal street food finds that will satisfy your cravings and take your taste buds on a journey across the globe.
From the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the vibrant markets of Marrakech, we’ve scoured the world to bring you the most delicious and authentic halal street food. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy kebabs, savoury samosas, or sweet treats, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to indulge in mouth-watering dishes that are sure to leave you wanting more.
So, grab your passport and let’s embark on a culinary adventure. Join us as we explore the best halal street food finds around the world, and discover the unique flavours and aromas of each destination.
Understanding Halal Street Food
If you’re a Muslim traveler, finding halal food can be a challenge, especially when it comes to street food. Halal refers to food that is permissible according to Islamic law, and it must meet certain criteria. The food must not contain pork or its by-products, alcohol, or any other haram (forbidden) ingredients.
When it comes to street food, it can be difficult to determine whether the food is halal or not. However, there are a few things you can look out for to ensure that you’re eating halal street food.
Firstly, look for street vendors who have halal certification. This certification ensures that the food is prepared according to halal standards. Secondly, you can ask the vendor about the ingredients they use. If you’re unsure about a certain ingredient, it’s best to avoid it.
It’s also important to note that some street food may be cooked in the same oil or on the same grill as non-halal food. This can make the food non-halal, so it’s important to ask the vendor about this before you order.
In some countries, such as Malaysia and Indonesia, it’s easier to find halal street food as the majority of the population is Muslim. However, in other countries, such as Japan or Thailand, it may be more difficult. In these cases, it’s best to do your research beforehand and find halal street food options before you arrive.
Overall, finding halal street food can be a challenge, but with a bit of research and some careful consideration, you can enjoy delicious street food while still adhering to your dietary restrictions.
Asia’s Halal Street Food
When it comes to Halal street food, Asia is a treasure trove of flavours and aromas. From Indonesia’s satay to Malaysia’s Nasi Lemak and Turkey’s Doner Kebab, there are many delicious dishes to try.
Indonesia’s Satay
Satay is a popular street food in Indonesia, made from skewered meat that is grilled over charcoal. The meat is marinated in a mixture of spices, including turmeric, coriander, and cumin, giving it a unique flavour. Satay can be made with chicken, beef, or lamb, and is often served with peanut sauce and rice cakes.
Malaysia’s Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is a traditional Malaysian dish that is often eaten for breakfast. It consists of rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, served with fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and a spicy sambal sauce. Nasi Lemak can also be served with a variety of side dishes, including fried chicken, beef rendang, and curry.
Turkey’s Doner Kebab
Doner kebab is a popular street food in Turkey, made from spiced meat that is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is sliced thinly and served in a pita bread with salad, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of sauces, including tahini, garlic, and chilli. Doner kebab can be made with lamb, beef, or chicken, and is often accompanied by a side of fries.
Whether you’re in Indonesia, Malaysia, or Turkey, there’s no shortage of delicious Halal street food to try. From the spicy sambal of Nasi Lemak to the tender meat of Doner Kebab, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Halal Street Food in the Middle East
When it comes to street food, the Middle East has some of the best Halal options around. From Lebanon’s famous shawarma to Saudi Arabia’s delicious mutabbaq, there’s something for every taste bud.
Lebanon’s Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular street food in Lebanon and you can find it on almost every street corner. It’s made with succulent meat, usually chicken or lamb, that’s marinated in a blend of spices and then roasted on a spit. The meat is then shaved off and served in a wrap or pita bread with salad and a variety of sauces.
One of the best places to try shawarma in Lebanon is at Barbar, a street food chain that has been serving up delicious shawarma for over 40 years. Their shawarma is made with high-quality meat and served with fresh vegetables and their signature garlic sauce.
Saudi Arabia’s Mutabbaq
Mutabbaq is a popular street food in Saudi Arabia that’s similar to a stuffed pancake. It’s made with a thin layer of dough that’s filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices. The dough is then folded over and cooked on a griddle until it’s crispy and golden brown.
One of the best places to try mutabbaq in Saudi Arabia is at Al Baik, a fast-food chain that’s famous for its delicious fried chicken and mutabbaq. Their mutabbaq is filled with a spicy meat mixture and served with a side of pickles and chutney.
Overall, the Middle East is a great place to explore Halal street food. Whether you’re in Lebanon or Saudi Arabia, you’re sure to find something delicious to try.
Halal Street Food in Africa
Africa is a continent with a rich culinary history, and its street food is no exception. Halal street food in Africa is particularly vibrant, with many delicious options to choose from. Here are a few of the best halal street food finds in Africa.
Morocco’s Tagine
Moroccan tagine is a popular dish that can be found on the streets of Morocco. It is a slow-cooked stew that typically includes meat, vegetables, and spices. The dish is named after the clay pot in which it is cooked, which is also called a tagine. The pot has a cone-shaped lid that helps to circulate the steam and cook the ingredients evenly.
Tagine can be made with a variety of meats, including chicken, beef, and lamb. Vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions are also commonly included. The dish is usually served with bread or couscous.
Egypt’s Koshari
Koshari is a popular street food in Egypt that is both vegetarian and halal. It is a hearty dish that combines rice, lentils, and macaroni, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. Koshari is a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
The dish has a fascinating history, with some sources suggesting that it was originally brought to Egypt by Indian soldiers during the British occupation. Koshari has since become a staple of Egyptian cuisine and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Overall, halal street food in Africa is a must-try for any food lover. Whether you’re in Morocco or Egypt, you’re sure to find a delicious and satisfying meal on the streets.
Halal Street Food in Europe
Europe is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and the halal street food scene is no exception. From the United Kingdom’s samosas to France’s falafel, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.
United Kingdom’s Samosa
If you’re in the UK, be sure to try the samosas. These triangular-shaped pastries are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as potatoes, peas, and meat, and are typically served with chutney. You can find them at street vendors and markets all over the country, especially in London.
France’s Falafel
In France, falafel is a popular street food. These deep-fried balls made from chickpeas are typically served in a pita with salad, hummus, and tahini sauce. The Marais district in Paris is known for its falafel stands, and Lille and Lyon also have great options.
Whether you’re in the UK or France, make sure to try these halal street food options for a delicious and authentic taste of the local cuisine.
Halal Street Food in the Americas
USA’s Halal Guys
One of the most popular Halal street food chains in the USA is The Halal Guys. They started as a food cart in New York City and have now expanded to over 94 locations across the country. They serve a variety of dishes such as gyros, chicken, and falafel platters, sandwiches, and salads. All their meat is Halal-certified and they use a special blend of spices to give their dishes a unique flavour.
If you’re in California, you can also check out Shawarma Guys in Alameda. They serve Halal meat and have a variety of dishes such as shawarma, falafel, and hummus.
Canada’s Chicken Shawarma
If you’re in Canada, you can’t miss trying the Chicken Shawarma from Paramount Fine Foods. They have locations across the country and serve a variety of Lebanese dishes. Their Chicken Shawarma is made with Halal-certified meat and is served with garlic sauce, pickles, and tomatoes.
Another great option is Shawarma Palace in Ottawa. They serve a variety of Middle Eastern dishes such as shawarma, falafel, and hummus. All their meat is Halal-certified and they have won several awards for their food.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for delicious Halal street food in the Americas, The Halal Guys and Shawarma Palace are great options in the USA and Canada respectively.
How to Identify Halal Street Food
When travelling to a new country, it can be challenging to identify halal street food. Here are a few tips to help you find halal street food easily:
Research Ahead of Time
Before travelling, research the destination and find out where halal food is available. You can use online resources like HalalTrip to find halal restaurants and street food vendors. This will save you time and effort when you arrive at your destination.
Look for Halal Certification
When looking for halal street food, always look for halal certification on the food packaging or at the vendor’s stall. Halal certification ensures that the food is prepared according to Islamic dietary laws.
Ask the Vendor
If you are unsure whether the food is halal, don’t hesitate to ask the vendor. Most vendors will be happy to answer your questions and provide information about the ingredients used in their food.
Check the Ingredients
If there is no halal certification available, check the ingredients used in the food. Avoid food that contains ingredients like pork, alcohol, and gelatine. Look for food that contains halal meat, vegetables, and grains.
Visit Halal-Friendly Destinations
If you are travelling to a non-Muslim country, consider visiting halal-friendly destinations like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Turkey. These countries have a large Muslim population, and it is easier to find halal street food.
By following these tips, you can easily identify halal street food and enjoy delicious local cuisine while travelling.
Health Benefits of Halal Street Food
When it comes to street food, halal options are becoming increasingly popular. Not only is halal food a religious requirement for Muslims, but it also has many health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider trying halal street food on your next trip:
Lower Fat Content
Halal meat is prepared in a specific way that involves draining the blood from the animal before it is cooked. This process removes excess fat, making the meat leaner and healthier. When you choose halal street food, you are choosing a healthier option that is lower in fat.
Higher Quality Meat
Halal meat is also known for being of higher quality. The animals are raised in a specific way, with a focus on their welfare and wellbeing. The result is meat that is free from hormones and antibiotics, and is therefore healthier and safer to consume.
Better Digestion
The halal process of preparing meat involves cutting the throat of the animal in a specific way, which allows all the blood to drain out. This process also removes toxins from the meat, making it easier to digest. When you choose halal street food, you are choosing a healthier option that is easier on your digestive system.
More Nutritious
Halal meat is also known for being more nutritious. The animals are raised in a specific way, with a focus on their diet and nutrition. This results in meat that is higher in protein and other essential nutrients, making it a healthier choice overall.
Overall, halal street food is a great option for those who are looking for a healthier, more nutritious option when it comes to street food. With its lower fat content, higher quality meat, better digestion, and more nutritious profile, halal street food is a great choice for anyone who wants to eat well while on the go.
Conclusion
In this article, we have explored some of the best halal street food finds around the world. From the delicious kwayteowphat in Bangkok to the exotic flavours of Morocco, halal food offers a world of tantalizing flavours and unforgettable experiences.
When travelling to non-Muslim countries, it can be challenging to find halal food. However, with some research and planning, you can easily find halal options. You can use social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to look for halal food bloggers and influencers who share their discoveries. You can also check out the local Muslim community for recommendations.
It is essential to note that halal street food is not only delicious but also safe to eat. Halal food is prepared according to Islamic dietary laws, which prohibits the consumption of pork and alcohol and requires the use of halal-certified ingredients and utensils.
Whether you are a Muslim or not, halal street food is a must-try when travelling. It offers a unique culinary experience that you won’t find anywhere else. So, the next time you travel, make sure to explore the local halal cuisine and savour the delicious tastes of the world.
