In Fort Worth, Texas, Goldee’s BBQ has become a popular destination, attracting nearly 100 visitors by 9 a.m. on a hot Saturday in June. Among those waiting was Thanh Huynh, who arrived as early as 6:30 a.m. eager to enjoy a substantial meal at the acclaimed barbecue spot.
Opened in 2020, Goldee’s BBQ quickly gained recognition, being named the top barbecue spot in Texas by Texas Monthly in 2021 and later earning a Bib Gourmand award from the Michelin Guide for offering excellent food at an affordable price.
Goldee’s serves traditional Texas barbecue like pork belly and ribs but adds a unique twist with offerings such as halal brisket and lamb. These meats adhere to Islamic guidelines and reflect the growing demand for halal options in Texas.
An increasing number of halal barbecue establishments are appearing across Texas. These include Yearby’s Barbecue & Waterice in Plano and Levant Mediterranean BBQ with locations in Houston and Frisco. Haris Ghaffar, a visitor at Goldee’s, appreciates the expanding choices, recalling when halal dining options were limited to items like McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish sandwiches in his youth.
According to Farhan Mustafa, a James Beard Award-winning food writer, halal food is now an integral part of the American culinary landscape. He notes that Muslim communities are bringing their unique influences to Texas barbecue, merging cultural flavors with traditional recipes.
Goldee’s pitmaster, Zain Shafi, introduced Pakistani-inspired halal dishes such as tandoori smoked turkey. Chef Nupohn Inthanousay offers a smoked Lao sausage at Goldee’s, showcasing a blend of culinary heritages.
Kafi BBQ in Irving, owned by Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi, offers halal Wagyu beef with Iraqi spices, challenging traditional Texas barbecue norms. Abdul-Kafi emphasizes excellence in his cooking, a principle rooted in the Islamic concept of “Ihsan.”
Despite growing anti-Muslim rhetoric in Texas, halal barbecue establishments demonstrate integration and contribution to local cuisine. Houston native Muhammad Sohail and Dallas resident Areeba Ali highlight the inclusivity of halal barbecue, showing its appeal beyond specific religious or cultural communities.
Farhan Mustafa believes the success of halal barbecue reflects the resilience of Muslim American communities, emphasizing that this cuisine embodies the diversity and acceptance inherent in American culture.