Haji biryani facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Haji biryani |
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| Restaurant information | |
| Established | 1939 |
| Current owner(s) | Haji Mohammad Shahed |
| Previous owner(s) | Haji Mohammad Hossain, Haji Mohammad Golam Hossain |
| Food type | Chevon (goat's meat) biryani |
| Street address | 70 Kazi Alauddin Road, Nazira Bazar |
| City | Dhaka |
| Country | Bangladesh |
| Seating capacity | 50 |
| Other locations | Motijheel |
Haji Biryani, also called Hajir Biryani, is a very old and famous restaurant in Old Dhaka, Bangladesh. It's known for its delicious biryani, a special dish made with flavorful rice and tender goat meat.
Besides biryani, the restaurant also offers borhani, a refreshing drink made from yogurt and mint. Soft drinks are available too. This popular spot began in 1939 as a small food stall. Over time, it grew into a beloved part of Dhaka's food culture.
History of Haji Biryani
The Haji Biryani restaurant was started in 1939. It was founded by a skilled cook named Haji Mohammad Hossain. He was from a group of people called Hadhrami Arabs.
After Haji Mohammad Hossain passed away in 1992, his son, Haji Mohammad Golam Hossain, took over the business. He made sure to keep the restaurant's original style and traditions.
Later, Haji Mohammad Golam Hossain decided to pass the business on to his own son, Haji Mohammad Shahed. This means the special biryani recipe has been kept a family secret for many years! The biryani here is a bit like a Yemeni dish called Haneeth.
Where to Find Haji Biryani
Haji Biryani has a few locations where you can enjoy their food. The main and original restaurant is in Old Dhaka. You can find it at 70 Kazi Alauddin Road, in an area called Nazira Bazar.
There is also another branch of Haji Biryani. This second location is in Motijheel. This makes it easier for more people to try their famous biryani.
The Secret Biryani Recipe
The special recipe for Haji Biryani uses many tasty ingredients. It includes highly seasoned rice and tender chevon (goat's meat).
Other important ingredients are mustard oil, garlic, and onion. Spices like black pepper, saffron, clove, cardamom, and cinnamon give it a rich flavor.
A little salt and lemon juice are added for taste. The recipe also uses doi (which is yogurt), peanuts, cream, and raisins. A small amount of cheese (from either a cow or buffalo) completes the dish.
The current owner, Haji Mohammad Shahed, says he has never changed the recipe. He even claims he hasn't changed the amount of salt! This shows how much they value their family tradition.
