🔥 The Ultimate Al Faham Platter: What to Grill & How
If you love the rich, smoky flavors of Middle Eastern barbecue, then Al Faham is a must-try. This traditional Gulf-style charcoal grilling technique transforms simple ingredients into mouthwatering feasts bursting with bold spices and irresistible aroma.
The beauty of Al Faham is in its variety — a platter packed with different grilled meats and sides that satisfy every craving. Ready to impress family and friends with an authentic Al Faham experience? Here’s everything you need to know about what to grill and how to do it right.
🍗 What to Grill on Your Al Faham Platter
Al Faham isn’t just about one meat; it’s about a delicious medley that offers rich, smoky flavors and tender textures. Here are the essentials:
1. Al Faham Chicken
Marinated in a blend of garlic, lemon, olive oil, and Arabic spices like cumin and coriander, Al Faham chicken is juicy and flavorful. Whole chickens or large pieces like thighs and legs are slow-grilled over charcoal until the skin crisps to perfection.
2. Lamb Chops or Shoulder
Lamb is a Gulf favorite, especially shoulder cuts or chops that stay tender and juicy when cooked slowly. The meat is typically marinated with Baharat spice mix, yogurt, and lemon juice, then grilled to smoky perfection.
3. Beef Kebabs
Tender chunks of beef or minced beef kebabs (kofta) are spiced with onions, parsley, and spices, then skewered and grilled over charcoal. They add a satisfying hearty bite to your platter.
4. Seafood (Optional but Popular)
Grilled fish like hammour or shrimp marinated with garlic, lemon, and spices add a fresh, light contrast. Seafood is often wrapped in foil or grilled on mesh grills to keep it tender.
🌿 The Secret: Marinades & Spice Mixes
The magic of Al Faham lies in the marinade. Typical ingredients include:
Garlic
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Ground cumin, coriander, and paprika
Baharat spice mix (a blend of black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and more)
Salt and pepper
Marinate your meats for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to maximize flavor and tenderness.
🔥 How to Grill Al Faham Meat Perfectly
Step 1: Prepare Your Charcoal Grill
Use natural lump charcoal if possible—it burns hotter and cleaner, imparting that perfect smoky flavor.
Step 2: Manage Your Heat
Create two zones on your grill: one side for direct high heat (for searing) and one for indirect lower heat (for slow cooking). This way, you can get that crispy char without drying out the meat.
Step 3: Start with the Larger Cuts
Place chicken or lamb shoulder on the indirect heat side, cover, and cook slowly to keep them juicy. Turn occasionally and baste with leftover marinade or olive oil.
Step 4: Add Kebabs and Seafood Later
Kebabs and seafood cook faster and benefit from direct heat. Grill them last, turning frequently to avoid burning.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, let the meats rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute — this makes the meat extra tender and juicy.
🍽️ What to Serve With Your Al Faham Platter
No Al Faham meal is complete without the perfect sides:
Mandi Rice: Fragrant basmati rice cooked with spices and sometimes meat broth.
Fresh Arabic Bread (Khubz): Perfect for wrapping grilled meat and dipping into sauces.
Garlic Sauce (Toum): Creamy, garlicky, and zesty — the ultimate dip for grilled meats.
Pickles and Salad: Adds brightness and crunch to balance the smoky richness.
Hummus and Baba Ganoush: Classic Middle Eastern dips for extra flavor layers.