NewsKPBS Public MediaSeptember 6, 2026San Diego
Texas barbecue restaurants adopt halal meat preparation
Texas barbecue restaurants are increasingly offering halal-certified brisket, turkey, and lamb to meet growing demand and showcase diverse culinary influences. Pitmasters are integrating traditional Texas smoking techniques with family-heritage spices and high-quality halal meat sourcing.
Read the full story at KPBS Public MediaWhy It Matters
The rise of barbecue represents a shift in the Texas culinary landscape, providing new dining options for Muslim residents and expanding the market for traditional barbecue establishments.
Key Facts
- Goldee's BBQ in Fort Worth offers halal brisket, turkey, and lamb alongside traditional pork options.
- At least a dozen barbecue spots across Texas now serve halal-certified meats.
- Kafi BBQ in Irving specializes in halal Wagyu beef and Iraqi-spiced barbecue.
- The halal food industry has grown into a multibillion-dollar sector in the United States.
- Some Texas barbecue restaurants are incorporating international spices like bay leaf, coriander, and Iraqi blends into their rubs.
- Halal meat is defined as meat raised and butchered in accordance with Islamic guidelines.
- The concept of 'Ihsan' is cited by some pitmasters as a guiding principle for achieving excellence in food preparation.
Who's Mentioned
organizationKafi BBQ“A barbecue restaurant in Irving owned by Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi.”personSalahodeen Abdul-Kafi“Owner of Kafi BBQ and former tech worker.”organizationTexas Monthly“Publication that ranked Goldee's BBQ as the top spot in Texas.”organizationMichelin Guide“Awarding body that gave Goldee's BBQ a Bib Gourmand award.”organizationGoldee's BBQ“A highly-rated barbecue restaurant in Fort Worth that offers halal options.”personFarhan Mustafa“Food writer who documented the rise of American halal barbecue.”