Halal meat — from animals slaughtered according to Islamic law — isn’t just for Muslims. Ranchers raising cows, goats, lambs, and chickens for the halal market don’t feed them animal products for fear that they might contain pig parts — thus avoiding one of the more unsavory elements of today’s factory farming practices. Naime Ayyad at Halal Food Market stocks some of the freshest, most diverse selections of meats in the East Bay, from spicy merguez sausage to organic chickens and lamb brains. Tell his butchers what you’re cooking and they’ll happily cut your meat to match. They’ll even throw in a few culinary tips. While you’re in the store, you can shop for all the other spices, dried fruits, and grains you need for your tagine or curry.
Readers’ Pick:
Oakland Kosher Foods
3419 Lakeshore Ave., Oakland, 510-839-0177
