1. What is Halal? Is ‘Halal’ for Muslims only?
In Islam, Halal is an Arabic term meaning “lawful or permissible” and not only encompasses food and drink, but all matters of daily life.
The quality of Halal food and other products attracts a variety of consumers all around the globe. Anyone regardless their faith, gender, ethnicity, nationality, race, age- can eat ‘Halal’ and lead a ‘Halal’ lifestyle.
With regards to the term “Halal” within the Food & Beverage Industry, it simply refers to anything permissible to consume. If it is used in reference to animal meat, then it means any animal which has been slaughtered in accordance with the Shariah method is Halal (lawful) to consume.
2. Principles of preparing Halal dishes?
- Halal Ingredients: Start by using ingredients that are considered halal, meaning they are permissible according to Islamic law. This includes avoiding any prohibited substances such as pork and alcohol.
- Humane Slaughtering: When preparing meat, it’s essential to ensure that animals are slaughtered in a humane manner according to Islamic guidelines. This involves swiftly cutting the throat to allow the animal to bleed out quickly and minimizing suffering.
- Avoiding Prohibited Substances: Make sure to avoid any additives, preservatives, or ingredients that are not halal and could compromise the integrity of the dish.
- Clean Cooking Practices: Maintain cleanliness and hygiene throughout the cooking process to prevent cross-contamination and ensure that the food remains pure and suitable for consumption according to Islamic principles.
- Proper Handling and Storage: Handle and store halal food properly to prevent contamination and maintain its integrity until it is ready to be served.
3. How to make Food Halal?
“Create a cooking guide for a Halal dish – Grilled Chicken with Sticky Rice.
Necessary ingredients:
- 500g chicken meat (can be breast or thigh)
- 2 cups sticky rice
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, minced garlic)
- Fresh vegetables (lettuce, carrot, cucumber) for garnish
Prepare and grill the chicken:
- Rinse the chicken meat and pat dry. Mix minced garlic with olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture onto the chicken meat and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Grill the chicken on a grill or grill pan until cooked through and golden brown.
Cook the sticky rice:
- Rinse the sticky rice and soak in water for about 30 minutes. Then, add water and cook as usual.
- Once the rice is cooked, keep it warm.
Serve:
- Arrange the grilled chicken on a plate and serve alongside the sticky rice.
- Garnish with fresh vegetables.
Tips and experiences:
- To ensure tender and flavorful chicken, choose high-quality meat and marinate the chicken beforehand for at least 30 minutes.
- When grilling the chicken, flip it regularly to ensure even cooking and prevent it from drying out.
- Make sure the rice is soaked before cooking to ensure soft and delicious sticky rice.
This dish will provide you and your family with a delicious and wholesome experience of Halal cuisine. Wishing you success and enjoyment in making it!”
