When you sit down at a premier Arabian restaurant like Royal Mandi House, you are immediately faced with a delightful dilemma: what type of chicken should you order? Two of the undisputed heavyweights on our menu are Al-Faham and Broasted Chicken. While both are incredibly popular choices for food lovers in Mangalore, they offer entirely different culinary experiences.
What is Al-Faham?
If you love smoky, robust flavors, Al-Faham is the dish for you. Originating from the Middle East, Al-Faham translates to "charcoal" in Arabic, which perfectly describes its cooking method.
The preparation of authentic Al-Faham involves marinating a butterflied chicken in a rich, vibrant blend of Arabian spices. This marinade typically features a mix of garlic, ginger, coriander, cumin, paprika, and a touch of yogurt or olive oil to tenderize the meat. The true magic happens on the grill. The marinated chicken is cooked over open charcoal flames, allowing the fat to render slowly. This process locks in the juices while imparting an intense, earthy smokiness to the meat. The result is a beautifully charred exterior that gives way to succulent, heavily spiced chicken inside.
Best paired with: Al-Faham is traditionally served alongside perfectly seasoned Mandi rice, soft Kubbus (pita bread), and a side of fresh garlic paste (Toum) to cool down the spices.
What is Broasted Chicken?
On the opposite end of the spectrum is Broasted Chicken, the ultimate comfort food for those who crave a satisfying crunch. The term "broasting" refers to a specific cooking technique that combines the principles of deep frying and pressure cooking.
To create the perfect Broasted Chicken, the meat is first marinated in a seasoned brine, ensuring that flavor penetrates deep into the bone. It is then coated in a seasoned flour mixture before being placed into a specialized pressure fryer. The pressure seals the exterior of the chicken instantly, preventing the cooking oil from seeping into the meat. The result? An incredibly crispy, golden-brown crust on the outside, and incredibly juicy, steaming-hot chicken on the inside.
Best paired with: Broasted chicken is universally loved alongside crispy French fries, fresh coleslaw, and a generous serving of garlic dip.
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between Al-Faham and Broasted Chicken ultimately comes down to your personal craving for the day.
- Choose Al-Faham if: You are in the mood for traditional Arabian food. The deep, smoky flavors and charcoal-grilled texture make it the perfect accompaniment to Mandi rice. It is a slightly healthier option since it is grilled rather than fried.
- Choose Broasted Chicken if: You want an irresistible crunch. The combination of crispy skin and juicy meat makes it a fantastic, satisfying meal, especially when ordered as a combo with fries and a soft drink.
Taste the Best of Both Worlds
At Royal Mandi House, we refuse to make you choose. Our expert chefs have perfected both techniques, ensuring that whether you order our signature Al-Faham Mandi or our Family Broasted Meal Combo, you are getting the absolute best in Mangalore.
Craving a Feast?
Why not try both? Visit us today or call to place your order.
