The best of the best Haleems Dhaka has to offer

What is for today's iftar? This is a question we probably ask everyday during ramadan. And deep down, we cherish that the answer includes the word "Haleem". 

But what is Haleem? On paper, it is a magical mix of different varieties of lentil and spices with beef, chicken or mutton. In reality, it is way larger. 

Haleem is the carrier of culinary skill and knowledge that has been passed down through generations across the Middle East, Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The texture of the gravy, blend of the spices and tender meat says that it is nothing short of the culinary heritage of these regions.

Haleem can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. You can dip a butter nun in the rich gravy and enjoy a blissful delight in your mouth or you could simply take a bowl of it with some lemon, ginger slices and coriander leaf. 

Irrespective of how you may enjoy Haleem, the dish tastes fulfilling every time.

All across Dhaka during Ramadan, Haleem is prepared in almost every alleyway. From five star hotels to the restaurant across the street, there are some outstanding Haleem joints in Dhaka which should not be missed by food enthusiasts.

We want you to taste the best Haleems Dhaka has to offer. Here is a list of the best of the best Haleems we have tasted so far.
 

Mama Halim

Dhaka's Haleem chronicles will be incomplete without mentioning Kalabagan's very own Mama Halim. 

To be honest, mama Haleem is craved by food enthusiasts all around the year. Traditionally, it is a bit thick, spicy and comes with small, tender pieces of mutton, beef or chicken. The chutney that comes with a bowl of Mama Halim complements the Haleem in a unique way.

Royal Bakery

The next go-to beef Haleem on our list is the one from Puran Dhaka's famous and beloved Royal Bakery. The Haleem's aroma is enough to tell you how good it is. 

Royal Bakery's Haleem has the power to wake up the whole neighborhood with it's spicy, savory aroma. This Haleem also comes with a thick gravy and the beef or mutton chunks melt in your mouth instantly.

Star Kabab

Haleem from Star Kabab needs no introduction for the food enthusiasts of Dhaka. Across both Old and New Dhaka, Star Kabab's Haleem holds a strong position despite only serving mutton Haleem.

This Haleem comes with its signature blend of mutton and a perfectly cooked gravy. Adding some mint leaves and ginger slices can turn the bowl of Haleem into a piece of heaven in your mouth.

Hirajheel Cafe

Hirajheel Cafe's Haleem hails from the capital's Motijheel. Besides the spicy taste, the color of this Haleem will instantly tell you that you are in for a treat. Both beef and mutton Haleem are available here.

Salam's Kitchen

The Haleem from the low-key restaurant joint Salam's Kitchen may not be as popular as some of the other ones but it does pack a spicy gravy punch. With branches scattered across Dhaka, Salam's Kitchen brings the taste of Dld Dhaka Haleems to New Dhaka. 

Big chunks of spicy beef and mutton is their speciality. Chewing on the spice enriched bones will make you crave for more.

Dhaka's Haleem heritage is so vast and diverse that we have only managed to touch the tip of the iceberg here. So do not just stick to eating the Haleem from the restaurant across the street. Keep tasting and keep looking for new and diverse Haleems in Dhaka. You will not regret it!

A steaming hot bowl of Haleem is best served with 

Chopped mint leaves 

Lemon juice

Coriander leaves

Fried onions

Chopped ginger and green chilies

Haleem can also be eaten with naan or with any type of bread or rice.

A high-calorie dish, Haleem provides protein from the meat and fibre and carbohydrates from the various combinations of grains and pulses.