Dum ke Roat in Hyderabad : With the advent of the Muharram month, Hyderabad’s beloved seasonal confectionery, Dum ke Roat, has made its much-anticipated return to city bakeries. This popular cookie, traditionally enjoyed during the first month of the Hijri calendar, holds a special place in the hearts and taste buds of the city’s residents.
Dum ke Roat is Back in Hyderabad: The Must-Have Muharram Treat Everyone’s Talking About!
A Tradition Steeped in History
Dum ke Roat, a crispy cookie approximately the size of a tea saucer, is prepared using a blend of wheat flour, semolina (sooji), vegetable oil, sugar, honey, clarified butter (ghee), salt, cardamom, and milk products. Notably, it is a purely vegetarian delicacy, with no eggs used in its preparation. Syed Irfan of Subhan Bakery in Nampally confirms, “We don’t use eggs to prepare it.”
The tradition of baking and consuming Dum ke Roat during Muharram has deep roots in the cultural and historical fabric of Hyderabad. Although the cookie itself does not have direct ties to Islamic history, it has become an integral part of the city’s culinary heritage, particularly during this sacred month.
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Historical Significance
One popular story traces the origins of Dum ke Roat to the era of the Nizams, the erstwhile rulers of Hyderabad. It is believed that this type of cookie was offered to mourners during Muharram processions by the Nizam. Another tale suggests that the seventh Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, offered roat to the ‘Nala-e-Mubarak’ Alam near Charminar for the safety and well-being of his grandson, Mukarram Jah Bahadur. This act of devotion has continued as a tradition, with many people making vows for the safety of their loved ones and distributing the cookies as part of their fulfillment.
A City-Wide Favorite
The popularity of Dum ke Roat is not confined to any specific community. M A Majid of Pista House remarks, “Irrespective of caste and creed, people visit our stores and purchase Dum ke Roat.” He emphasizes the use of quality ingredients and the expertise of experienced bakers in creating this beloved confectionery. Pista House has even made arrangements to ship Dum ke Roat globally, partnering with a courier service to meet the demands of customers worldwide.
Variations and Availability
Different bakeries across Hyderabad offer unique twists on the traditional Dum ke Roat. At the Bakewell Cake House in Tolichowki, a variation known as ‘gur roat’ incorporates jaggery and saffron (kesar) into the mix. “Jaggery and kesar are added to the regular ingredients,” says Syed Maqbool of Bakewell Cake House. Other prominent locations where Dum ke Roat can be found include Alpha Bakery in Secunderabad, Rose Bakery in Chaderghat, and the iconic Karachi Bakery.
Competitive Spirit Among Bakers
Each year, bakers across Hyderabad vie to outdo their competitors in terms of taste and pricing, ensuring that Dum ke Roat remains a highlight of the Muharram month. As Syed Irfan from Subhan Bakery puts it, the competition drives them to innovate and maintain high standards, much to the delight of customers.
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Conclusion
Dum ke Roat’s return to Hyderabad’s bakeries marks the beginning of a cherished seasonal tradition. As the Muharram month unfolds, the city’s residents eagerly indulge in this delightful cookie, celebrating its historical significance and savoring its unique taste. Whether enjoyed fresh from local bakeries or shipped across the globe, Dum ke Roat continues to hold a special place in Hyderabad’s culinary culture.
Dum ke Roat: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Dum ke Roat?
- Dum ke Roat is a traditional Hyderabadi cookie made with wheat flour, sooji (semolina), vegetable oil, sugar, honey, clarified butter, salt, cardamom, and milk products. It is especially popular during the month of Muharram.
2. When is Dum ke Roat typically available?
- Dum ke Roat is usually available during the month of Muharram, the first month of the Hijri calendar.
3. Why is Dum ke Roat associated with Muharram?
- Although Dum ke Roat doesn’t have direct ties to Islamic history, it has become a traditional treat during Muharram in Hyderabad, often distributed during the month to commemorate the period.
4. Where can I buy Dum ke Roat in Hyderabad?
- Dum ke Roat can be found at various bakeries in Hyderabad, including Subhan Bakery, Pista House, Bakewell Cake House, Alpha Bakery, Rose Bakery, and Karachi Bakery.
5. Is Dum ke Roat a vegetarian cookie?
- Yes, Dum ke Roat is a purely vegetarian cookie as it is made without eggs.
6. What ingredients are used in Dum ke Roat?
- The ingredients include wheat flour, sooji (semolina), vegetable oil, sugar, honey, clarified butter, salt, cardamom, and milk products.
7. What makes Dum ke Roat unique compared to other cookies?
- Dum ke Roat’s unique blend of ingredients, traditional preparation methods, and its crispiness make it distinct. Its association with Muharram also adds cultural significance.
8. Can Dum ke Roat be shipped outside Hyderabad?
- Yes, some bakeries, like Pista House, have arrangements with courier services to ship Dum ke Roat across the globe.
9. What is the historical significance of Dum ke Roat?
- There are tales that link Dum ke Roat to the Nizam of Hyderabad, who offered these cookies to mourners during Muharram processions or as a vow for the safety of his grandson.
10. How do different bakeries make their Dum ke Roat unique?
- Each bakery might have its own secret recipe or special ingredients, like adding jaggery and kesar as seen in the ‘gur roat’ from Bakewell Cake House.
11. Can I find different varieties of Dum ke Roat?
- Yes, apart from the traditional Dum ke Roat, you might find variations like ‘gur roat’ which includes jaggery and kesar.
12. What is the size of a typical Dum ke Roat cookie?
- Dum ke Roat is typically the size of a tea saucer, making it a sizable and satisfying treat.
13. Is Dum ke Roat available throughout the year?
- Dum ke Roat is primarily available during Muharram, though some bakeries might have it at other times due to popular demand.
14. How much does Dum ke Roat typically cost?
- Prices may vary depending on the bakery and the quality of ingredients used. It is best to check with local bakeries for current pricing.
15. Can Dum ke Roat be stored for a long time?
- Yes, Dum ke Roat has a good shelf life if stored properly in an airtight container, keeping it crispy for several days.
16. Are there any special techniques used in making Dum ke Roat?
- Traditional methods often involve specific ratios of ingredients and careful baking to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
17. What is the best way to enjoy Dum ke Roat?
- Dum ke Roat can be enjoyed with tea or coffee, making it a perfect snack for any time of the day.
18. Do all Hyderabad bakeries sell Dum ke Roat during Muharram?
- Most well-known bakeries in Hyderabad will sell Dum ke Roat during Muharram, but availability may vary.
19. Is there any symbolism behind Dum ke Roat?
- While there is no direct religious symbolism, Dum ke Roat has become a cultural symbol of Muharram in Hyderabad, representing tradition and community.
20. Can Dum ke Roat be made at home?
- Yes, with the right ingredients and recipe, Dum ke Roat can be made at home, though it may not match the traditional taste from renowned bakeries.