Aqiqah — the Islamic tradition of sacrificing an animal to celebrate the birth of a child — is one of the most meaningful gatherings a Muslim family hosts. It typically happens on the seventh day after birth (or as close to it as practical) and involves feeding family, friends, and often members of the community. Baby showers, while not specifically Islamic, are increasingly common among Muslim families and carry similar catering needs.
Both events share a challenge: the parents are in the middle of the most exhausting period of their lives. Cooking for 30-100 guests while caring for a newborn is borderline impossible. Catering is not a luxury here — it's the practical solution.
Aqiqah Traditions and Food
The aqiqah sacrifice is traditionally one sheep or goat for a girl and two for a boy. The meat is divided into thirds: one third for the family, one third for relatives and friends, and one third for those in need.
For the aqiqah gathering itself, the sacrificed meat is typically the centrepiece of the meal. If you're having the animal processed through a halal butcher, we can prepare dishes using that meat. Alternatively, we provide a complete catering menu featuring lamb, chicken, and beef from our halal suppliers.
Menu Ideas for Aqiqah and Baby Showers
For a casual gathering (20-40 guests): Drop-off platters — mixed grill, rice, salad, mezze, and a dessert tray. The family handles setup; we handle the food. This is the most common format for home-based aqiqah celebrations.
For a larger event (50-100+ guests): Buffet service with a fuller spread. Multiple protein options, 2 rice/grain dishes, salad, mezze, bread, and dessert. Works well for community hall or masjid events.
Popular dishes: Lamb (the traditional aqiqah meat) prepared as kebabs, braised stew, or roasted. Saffron rice with almonds. Grilled chicken as a second protein option. Turkish lentil soup as a starter. Baklava and fresh fruit for dessert.
Planning Ahead
If possible, arrange catering before the baby arrives. You won't have bandwidth to plan a menu and coordinate logistics in the first week postpartum. Many families book our catering 4-6 weeks before the due date with a flexible delivery date, then confirm the exact date once the baby arrives.
If you're past that point and need to arrange catering quickly, we can usually accommodate 48-72 hours of notice for standard catering orders.
Let Us Handle the Food
Focus on your family and your newborn. We'll handle the food for your aqiqah or baby shower.