Get a taste of lip-smacking haleem at Shiraz's month-long festival in Kolkata

For the believers, Ramadan ensues fasting, prayers, benevolence and more. But for the incorrigible foodies, any religious occasion -- be it Ramadan or Ram Navami -- turns into a delicious prospect to splurge on the delectables associated with it. And hence for most of the city gastronomes, Ramzan means tasty haleem that's ubiquitously available around the city, especially in the age-old Mughlai restaurants. Profusely sweating Kolkatans on-the-go slurping up this delicious bowl of thick soup during office hours is a common sight during the holy month of Ramzan. 

Keeping this in mind, Shiraz Golden Restaurant, serving authentic Awadhi and Mughlai dishes for over five decades has announced their month-long Haleem Festival, offering a bouquet of tempting haleem for the food lovers.  

The journey of Haleem -- a popular stew made with wheat, lentils or barley and a generous portion of minced meat -- from its birthplace somewhere in West Asia to the Mughlai restaurants in Kolkata serving this broth in the afternoons during Ramzan, is a fascinating one. A close cousin of the popular Arabian dish, Harees -- which dates back to the 10th century and was introduced in Nizam's Hyderabad by his Arabian mercenaries -- the modern-day haleem is a modified version of the original dish. Slow-cooked for over eight hours, this nutritious bowl of pasty broth is a great way to break your fast.  

“The month of Ramadan has begun and Haleem is the most preferred dish to break the day-long fast as it is very filling, rich in protein and easily digestible. Our patrons eagerly wait for this festival, which we have been organising for nearly two decades, now. As always, best quality raw materials are used to prepare this delicacy”, says Ishtiaque Ahmed, partner, Shiraz Golden Restaurant.

The wide array of Haleem items include Mutton Shahi Haleem, Chicken Shahi Haleem, Mutton Irani Haleem, Mutton Afghani Haleem, Mutton Hyderabadi Haleem that will be served during the month-long Haleem Festival.

A meal for two: Rs 500 plus taxes