Halal Food Guide

Discover the best destinations and dishes for Halal travelers.

About Halal Cuisine

Halal cuisine adheres to Islamic dietary laws, avoiding pork, alcohol, and requiring specific methods of animal slaughter. It encompasses a wide variety of culinary traditions across Muslim-majority countries.

Halal food widely available across Australia, particularly in major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide). Large Muslim population (2.6% nationally, 600,000+ people) supports extensive halal infrastructure. Sydney's Lakemba, Auburn, and Bankstown areas have concentrated halal restaurants, butchers, and supermarkets. Melbourne's Brunswick, Coburg, and Dandenong offer diverse halal Middle Eastern, Turkish, Indonesian, and Malaysian cuisines. Major supermarket chains (Woolworths, Coles, IGA) carry halal-certified meat and products. Main challenges: Pork in Australian sausage sizzles; alcohol culture in pubs; gelatin in desserts. Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) and ICCV certify halal establishments. HalalBooking and Zabihah apps help locate halal restaurants. Most universities and airports have halal food options.

Benefits of Halal Eating

Ensures ethical treatment of animals

Promotes cleanliness and hygiene in food preparation

Avoids consumption of harmful substances

Encourages mindful eating practices

Supports cultural and religious traditions

Travel Tips for Halal Travelers

1
Research halal-certified restaurants before traveling
2
Use halal restaurant finder apps
3
Consider vegetarian options when halal isn't available
4
Pack halal-certified snacks for travel days
5
Connect with local Muslim communities for recommendations

Must-Try Halal Foods

Lebanon

Kibbeh

Lebanon's national dish consisting of minced meat (typically lamb) mixed with bulgur wheat and spices, often served raw (kibbeh nayyeh) or fried with a meat filling.

Allergens: Wheat, Tree Nuts

Lebanon

Shawarma

Thin slices of marinated meat (chicken, beef, or lamb) stacked on a vertical rotisserie, slowly roasted, and shaved off to serve in sandwiches or plates.

Allergens: Wheat, Sesame

Kenya

Pilau (Spiced Rice)

Kenyan Pilau, distinct from other pilaf variations, is a fragrant rice dish cooked with an array of spices, including cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Meat (beef, goat, or chicken) is often included, along with onions, garlic, and ginger. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the spices and meat, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish. Pilau is often served during special occasions and celebrations, adding a festive touch to the meal.

Kenya

Samosa (Savory Pastry)

Kenyan Samosas, triangular deep-fried pastries, reflect Indian & Arab culinary influence. Filling typically spiced minced beef, chicken, or vegetables (potatoes, peas, lentils) - cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder season generously. Pastry wrapper made from wheat flour - crispy, golden exterior shatters to reveal savory filling. Samosas ubiquitous street food - sold at bus stations, kiosks, markets throughout Kenya. Served hot with tamarind chutney, tomato sauce, or kachumbari salad. Ramadan favorite - breaking fast (iftar) tradition. Coastal versions sometimes include fish, prawns. Vegetable samosas (samosa mboga) popular vegetarian option. Social snack enjoyed with chai tea, gatherings, celebrations.

Allergens: Wheat

Saudi Arabia

Kabsa (كبسة)

Kabsa is considered the national dish of Saudi Arabia, deeply ingrained in its cultural heritage and often served during celebrations and gatherings. This mixed rice dish is prepared with fragrant long-grain rice, a variety of spices (like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper), and usually meat (lamb, chicken, camel, or fish). The meat is often marinated in a blend of spices and then slow-cooked to achieve tenderness. The rice is cooked separately with the spice mixture, often incorporating onions, tomatoes, and raisins. The distinct flavour comes from the "baharat" spice blend and the method of cooking the meat. Kabsa boasts a rich, savoury taste with a subtle sweetness from the raisins. You can find Kabsa in virtually any Saudi restaurant, from street food stalls to upscale dining establishments.

Allergens: Gluten (sometimes), Dairy (sometimes), Soy (sometimes)

Saudi Arabia

Jareesh (جريش)

Jareesh is a comforting and nourishing Saudi porridge made from cracked wheat or coarsely ground barley. It holds a significant place in traditional Saudi cuisine, particularly during colder months and Ramadan. Preparation involves slow-cooking the grains with milk or broth, often with the addition of spices like cumin and turmeric. Some variations incorporate meat (usually chicken or lamb), which adds depth and richness to the dish. Jareesh has a creamy, porridge-like texture with a mildly savoury flavour. It is typically garnished with fried onions, clarified butter (samneh), and sometimes a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley. Jareesh can be found in traditional Saudi restaurants and is often made at home.

Allergens: Gluten, Dairy (sometimes)

Saudi Arabia

Saleeg (سليق)

Saleeg is a popular rice dish, particularly prevalent in the Hijaz region. It's often associated with special occasions. Short-grain white rice is cooked in milk or broth, often with butter and spices. Chicken or lamb is usually added, and the dish is known for its creamy, risotto-like consistency. Some regional variations include the addition of local vegetables. Saleeg is mildly savoury with a rich, creamy taste from the milk or broth. It is often garnished with fried onions and clarified butter. You can find Saleeg in many Saudi restaurants, particularly those specializing in Hijazi cuisine.

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten (sometimes)

Saudi Arabia

Matazeez (مطازيز)

Matazeez is a traditional Saudi dish that showcases the unique culinary heritage of the region. It's primarily made with pieces of dough (similar to gnocchi) cooked in a rich meat broth, usually lamb or mutton. The broth is often flavoured with tomatoes, onions, and spices like cumin and coriander. The dough provides a hearty texture, absorbing the flavours of the broth. Matazeez is a comforting and satisfying dish, particularly enjoyed during colder months. It's often garnished with fresh parsley or coriander. Matazeez is best enjoyed at local restaurants specializing in traditional Saudi dishes or in homes where it's often prepared for special occasions.

Allergens: Gluten

More Halal Dishes to Try

Shawarma

Middle Eastern Cuisine

Thinly sliced meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, served in bread with vegetables

Biryani

South Asian Cuisine

Fragrant rice dish with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices

Kebabs

Middle Eastern Cuisine

Grilled meat skewers with various spices and marinades

Tagine

Moroccan Cuisine

Slow-cooked stew named after the earthenware pot it is cooked in

Mandi

Jerk ChickenAckee and SaltfishRice and Peas

Dietary Options:

vegetarianvegangluten-free

🌙About Halal Cuisine

Benefits of Halal Eating

✈️Travel Tips for Halal Travelers

🍽️Must-Try Halal Foods

Kibbeh

Shawarma

Pilau (Spiced Rice)

Samosa (Savory Pastry)

Kabsa (كبسة)

Jareesh (جريش)

Saleeg (سليق)

Matazeez (مطازيز)

More Halal Dishes to Try

Shawarma

Biryani

Kebabs

Tagine

Mandi

All Countries with Halal Options

Australia

Japan

Italy

France

Egypt

Greece

Spain

Germany

Morocco

Vietnam

Turkey

Canada

Argentina

United States

Brazil

China

India

Thailand

Mexico

South Africa

Portugal

Sweden

Singapore

Peru

South Korea

Lebanon

New Zealand

Colombia

Kenya

Russia

Philippines

Ireland

Netherlands

Poland

Hungary

Austria

Norway

Ethiopia

Saudi Arabia

Jordan

Indonesia

Rwanda

Jamaica

About Halal Cuisine

Travel Tips for Halal Travelers

Must-Try Halal Foods