During the month of Ramzan in Hyderabad, families and friends come together to fast and eat together. Hyderabad is known for its delicious food, and during Ramzan, favorites such as Hyderabadi Biryani, Haleem, Kebabs, and pathar-ka-gosht are popular among both foodies and non-foodies. For Sehri, or the pre-dawn meal, bagara khana and keema are sought after, while after Iftar, Kebabs-Laccha Paratha, Haleem, and Arabian Ghava are favorites. There is a growing liking towards various types of kebabs such as tangdi, chicken, boti, shami, sheek, mutton, malai, reshmi, pathar-ka-gosht, malai paya, and mutton marg.
The city hardly sleeps during the month as markets run round-the-clock. Hotels, restaurants, and eateries close after the pre-dawn meal for an hour or two. In the by-lanes of the Old City, there are various food stalls that sell delicacies such as Marag, Pathar-ka-Gosht, Kebabs, and perennial favorites such as Al-Akbar’s Chicken 65, Shahran’s Seekh Kebabs, Royal’s Fish, and Nayab’s Malai Paya and Kheema-Gurda-Kaleji.
Arabian Ghava has become a popular hot beverage during Ramzan. While Hyderabad is renowned for its delicious Irani chai, the city has more to offer with the Arabian Ghava being a popular option. It is made by grinding coffee beans, dried ginger, and other spices. While the holy month of Ramzan increases the consumption of fruits, particularly dates, Ghava has become a significant drink among young people who want a change from regular tea or coffee. The original Arabian Ghava is prepared without milk, but Hyderabadis prefer it with milk. The drink is considered an energy drink and is consumed for medical reasons as well.
Overall, Ramzan in Hyderabad is a time for families and friends to come together to enjoy delicious food and hot beverages such as Arabian Ghava. There are various food stalls and restaurants that offer a wide range of delicacies that are only available during this month.
