Across Wisconsin and Islamabad, a passionate connection with grilled chicken dishes
In the bustling Blue Area of Islamabad, two colleagues, Faraz-ul-Hassan and Taimoor Abbasi, recently found themselves indulging in a local favourite - chicken broast at GoGo Broast.
GoGo Broast, a long-running eatery in the city, serves up a unique version of broast that has captured the hearts of many. The dish, a popular choice among students, youngsters, and older residents alike, is prepared using a secret recipe that involves marinating the chicken for at least three to four hours, followed by the addition of spices and another six hours of marination.
The term "broast" originated from the Broaster Company, founded in 1954 in Wisconsin, which patented the "Broaster Pressure Fryer." This innovative cooking method combines deep frying with pressure cooking, locking in juices and keeping the crust crisp. In Pakistan, the term is used more broadly to refer to a variety of fried chicken dishes.
Col. Harland Sanders, an American businessman, is credited with perfecting a secret recipe involving 11 herbs and spices for Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), a global phenomenon that popularised fried chicken since the 1930s. However, the Pakistani version of broast is marinated with South Asian spices, offering a distinct 'desi' flavour that resonates with locals like Muhammad Adnan Khan, a university student from Lakki Marwat, who prefers broast over beef and mutton when he visits Islamabad.
For Hassan, the Pakistani version of broast offers flavours that remind him of his hometown in rural Sindh. Abbasi, on the other hand, praised the flavourful and tender chicken broast at GoGo Broast, while Khan found the taste at Savor Foods in Islamabad to be good and fried well.
Despite its popularity, broast is high in fat and sodium, according to nutritionists. However, for many, the delicious taste and nostalgic appeal outweigh the health concerns.
In conclusion, chicken broast has become a staple in the Pakistani capital, served at roadside stalls and established eateries alike. Whether it's the unique recipe at GoGo Broast or the traditional flavours of the Pakistani version, broast continues to capture the hearts of food lovers in Islamabad.
