Camels race in for Ramadan
VISITORS to this year’s Ramadan Nights Lakemba could be forgiven for thinking they were in Marrakesh, exploring what exotic foods the ancient Moroccan medina has to offer.
Headlining the interesting foods on offer is the camel burger prepared by Broaster Chicken. This year, owners Abdul Obeid and Adam Omar expect to sell more than 160 kilograms of camel meat each night of the month-long festival – a far cry from the 10 kilograms they sold 11 years ago.
“It was a fluke. We were actually selling chicken, lamb and beef on the barbecue at the time, when a butcher came up and said we should sell camel, so we did,” Mr Obeid said.
The rest, as they say, is history. Although Broaster Chicken now has its challengers, Mr Obeid believes they maintain the edge due to their herbs and spices and special secret sauce.
“For us, it has always been something we enjoy and love and being a part of the community and giving back,” he said.
“All the profits we have made from camel meat goes back into helping people in need. We choose a variety of different charities to partner with, but the main one we work with is Gathering for Good.”
This year, Broaster Chicken will not only be offering camel burgers but also deer and kangaroo meat, as well as the more traditional chicken, beef, and lamb.
Mayor Khal Asfour said Ramadan Nights Lakemba would kick off on Sunday, May 5, and conclude on Thursday, June 6, in Haldon Street.
“There will be food vendors cooking up a storm on the footpaths, roving entertainment, an opportunity to take a photo with a camel and much, much more,” he said.
“Everyone knows that Lakemba is the place to be to celebrate and experience Ramadan. Last year alone, we attracted more than 350,000 visitors and we’re expecting the same, if not more, this year.”
Road closures around Lakemba are proposed on Saturday, May 11, 18 and 25 and Saturday, June 1. There will also be a park and ride options for visitors.
For more info, visit cb.city/ramadan
