Dum ka roat: Yummy, crunchy, spongy

Charminar: Keeping tab with the growing demand for traditional cookies known as ‘dum ka roat’, which were earlier a homemade snack, the bakeries in Old City has increased their production of late.

Catering to the season’s demand the bakeries are making good profits by making these special cookies prepared during month of Muharram.

During Muharram, the dum ka roat has remained the top item being sold by the bakeries which are selling the item in huge quantities and making some quick bucks, just like restaurants make profits during Ramzan by selling haleem.

Almost all the big bakeries like Yam, Morine in Old City, Subhan in Nampally and noted bakeries like Bakewell in some other parts like Tolichowki draw attention of customers by making special boxes of these cookies with different weights.

“Earlier generations used to make this cookie at home, but of late bakeries are making these and has remained on their menus for last few decades and those who wish to have a bite of this delicacy can buy it for themselves,” said Md Tajuddin, who enjoys the cookie each year during the month.

The cookie measuring size of average palm is made with flour, semolina (rawa), ghee and other ingredients like almond, cashew and fig.

Traditionally, the Hyderabadi dum ka roat is a speciality of Muharram and Shia Muslims who organise Majlis at home or Aashurkhanas distribute it as ‘tabarruk’ (divine) and is available for 68 days till the end of mourning period.

Traditionally these cookies are made in bhatti (traditional oven) but nowadays, electric ovens are a good alternative to save time in preparation.

Hyderabad has some popular dishes which are savoured specifically during particular Islamic months. Other than haleem, this specially baked cookie is quite popular during Muharram.

Dum ka roat has a special taste with a crunchy crust and spongy inside.
The cookie has a flavour from the cardamom added to it and is usually topped with an almonds and cashews.

Each year when Muharram arrives, one can find customers waiting in long queues in front of bakers.

Syed Munnawar Hussain, the owner of Yam bakers, at Kali Khaber, near Darulshifa said the cost of each piece of roat is Rs 10 and Rs 300 per kg.

It is considered to be reasonable, when compared to other cookies with dry fruits available in market.

Some small outlets in the Old City also started preparing the roat in the recent years.