Goldee’s BBQ in Fort Worth
Zain Shafi, a pitmaster at Goldee’s BBQ in Fort Worth, Texas, prepares briskets for smoking. The small, wooden shack restaurant has become notable for its offering of traditional Texas barbecue with a halal twist.
A Summer Morning at Goldee’s BBQ
By 9 a.m. on a summer Saturday, nearly 100 people gathered outside Goldee’s BBQ. Thanh Huynh, at 30 years old, was first in line, waiting since 6:30 a.m. to place a large order after reading through his list on his phone. The restaurant, founded in 2020 by friends, quickly gained recognition, earning the title of the best barbecue spot in Texas from Texas Monthly and a Bib Gourmand award from Michelin Guide.
Halal Options at Goldee’s
Goldee’s serves classic Texas barbecue items such as pork belly, sausage, and ribs. The restaurant also offers halal brisket, turkey, and lamb, aligning with Islamic dietary laws. At present, there is growing interest in barbecue venues like Goldee’s across Texas that include halal offerings.
Halal Barbecue’s Rise in Texas
With increasing attention to the state’s Muslim communities, venues offering halal barbecue thrive. Muslim pitmasters contribute to Texas’ culinary scene with innovative recipes rooted in personal heritage. Examples include Yearby’s Barbecue & Waterice, run by a Black Muslim couple, and Levant Mediterranean BBQ, which serves an all-beef menu.
Personal Experiences and Historical Context
Haris Ghaffar, for instance, recalls limited halal food options in the 1990s. Today, halal is a mainstream multibillion-dollar industry. Farhan Mustafa, a food writer, emphasizes halal food’s significance in American culture.
Goldee’s Contribution
Zain Shafi brought his expertise from Sabar Barbecue, a food truck serving Pakistani-infused halal dishes, to Goldee’s menu. The restaurant now includes options such as tandoori smoked turkey, showcasing his fusion of flavors.
Kafi BBQ’s Unique Approach
Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi, owner of Kafi BBQ in Irving, combines halal Wagyu beef with Iraqi spices to create distinctive barbecue dishes. His goal is to offer the best barbecue in Texas, without relying on traditional pork.
Community and Cultural Integration
Abdul-Kafi, a former tech worker, moved to Texas in search of a Muslim community. He established Kafi BBQ to refine his recipes and support local producers, guided by the Islamic concept of “Ihsan.” The menu features items such as 13-spice Wagyu brisket and pomegranate-glazed beef belly burnt ends.
Challenges and Progress
Despite political challenges, the rise of halal barbecue serves as a positive counter-narrative. Abdul-Kafi claims that Muslim contributions are enriching Texas cuisine.
Community Impact and Resilience
Patrons like Jonathan Tate express appreciation for the taste and quality, while Areeba Ali highlights the diverse demographic enjoying halal barbecue. Mustafa stresses the enduring presence of Muslim American communities, celebrating the success of halal dishes and their integration into American culture.
This article originated from a collaborative effort between NPR and Religion News Service.
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