Eating is a sensory celebration that blends taste, smell, and aesthetic . However, for many diners who follow halal guidelines, the array of options can feel limited. Fortunately, creating flavourful, halal-compliant meals can be both straightforward and enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen rookie, we've compiled three delicious and easy-to-make halal recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and comply with your dietary requirements .

Lamb Biryani, A South Asian classic

Lamb Biryani is renowned for its tantalizing explosion of taste and its creative mix of basmati rice, meat, and spices.

Cooking directions

• Marinate the lamb with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt . Let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight for better results.

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

• In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil with the bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and a little salt. Add the basmati rice and cook until it's 70% done. It should still have a slight bite to it. Drain the rice and set aside.

• In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil on medium heat and add the marinated lamb. Cook until the lamb is browned and almost fully cooked.

• In another pan, heat the ghee and add the sliced onions. Sauté until golden brown. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.

• Add the partially cooked lamb to the pan with the onions and tomatoes. Mix in the green chilis, yogurt, mint leaves, and coriander leaves.

• Sprinkle half of the Biryani masala over the mixture, then layer half of the partially cooked rice on top . Sprinkle the remaining Biryani masala over the rice, then add the remaining rice as the final layer.

• Drizzle the saffron-soaked milk over the top layer of rice. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for about 30 minutes, until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavors of the spices and the meat.

• Garnish with fried onions, serve hot and enjoy your Lamb Biryani!

Chicken Shawarma

This delicious street food classic originally from the Middle East can be easily made at home.

Cooking Directions

• In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground turmeric, ground paprika, cayenne pepper, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are combined.

• Put the chicken thighs into the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible, for the flavors to meld into the chicken.

• Once marinated, preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat.

• Cook the chicken thighs for about 7 -10 minutes on each side, until they are fully cooked and have a nice color .

• Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into thin strips .

• Warm the flatbreads on the grill or in a dry skillet , then spread some tahini sauce on each bread, add some sliced chicken, and top with your choice of salad.

• Roll each flat bread tightly to contain all the fillings, then serve the chicken shawarma warm. (Optional: sauté onions and bell peppers and add them to the Shawarma for extra flavor).

Fish Tacos

Halal fish tacos are a delightful fusion of Mexican culinary and Islamic dietary tradition. These tantalizingly delicious tacos are made from halal-certified fish, subtly seasoned and cooked to perfection.

Cooking Directions

• Preheat your grill or pan over medium heat.

• In a small bowl, mix together paprika, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper.

• Rub the spice mixture over both sides of the fish fillets.

• Drizzle the olive oil over the fish, then place them on the preheated grill.

• Cook for 4-5 minutes each side or until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork.

• Squeeze the lime juice over the cooked fish then break the fish into smaller pieces using a fork.

• Warm the tortillas on the grill or pan for about 30 seconds each side.

• To assemble the tacos, place some shredded lettuce in the center of each tortilla.

• Top it with the cooked fish, tomatoes, red onions, avocado slices , cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt if desired.

• Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your halal fish tacos

• These diverse , easy-to-cook halal recipes not only cater to the dietary laws of Islam, but they also promise sumptuous meals full of vibrant flavours that everyone can enjoy. Happy halal cooking!