Ramadan is the most important and holy month of the Islamic calendar during which Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib). However, one cannot deny the distinct culinary experience that is an indispensable part of this holy month. Ramadan, a month of worship and giving, is also a month full of flavours and delectable treats. Here are a few traditional dishes from around the world that you can make and serve during Ramadan 2019.
Harees – UAE
This dish goes back to the 17th century and can be found in different Asian, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Harees is a staple iftar dish in the UAE, consisting of mashed wheat often cooked with meat or chicken. Simple, tasty and rich – this porridge-like dish is cooked slowly over a long course of time to form a thick and sticky consistency as per this recipe.
Samboosa – Saudi Arabia
An iftar table in the kingdom is never complete without these delicious fried dumplings that come stuffed with either cheese, minced meat, or mixed vegetables. Originating from India, Samboosa is generally eaten after breaking the fast with dates as an appetizer before the big meal. We recommend this Meat Samboosa.
Fattoush – Lebanon
Hailing from Lebanon, Fattoush is one of the most recognised Middle Eastern salads and a standard dish on the iftar menu. It consists of fresh ingredients like cucumber, tomatoes, radish, watercress and lettuce. Topped with toasted or fried pieces of Arabic bread (Khubz), this salad recipe from Feel Good Foodie offers a tangy twist owing to its delightful dressing.
Harira Soup – Morocco
This flavourful and rich soup is conventionally eaten by Moroccans for iftar and it is expressly popular in Ramadan. Harira is a tomato-based soup with ingredients like chickpeas, meat, noodles, tomatoes and a lot of spices.
Zalabia – Algeria
Made from flour, water, salt and sugar syrup, this tasty Algerian dessert is light and crispy. It is commonly savoured with tea after iftar during Ramadan. It is a delicious to sweet tooth craving during iftar. We found this easy Zalabia recipe from Time Out Dubai that is quick to make as well.
Dates – Middle East
Last but not the least, dates are traditionally eaten to break the fast during Ramadan, as was the practice of Prophet Mohammed who broke his fast with three dates and water. 100% organic and deliciously healthy gifts for Ramadan, Bateel dates are an excellent source of fibre, natural sugar, iron and magnesium. They help restoring blood sugar after long hours of fasting. Dates can be eaten plain or filled with nuts and candied fruits.
Fattah – Egypt
This dish goes all the way back to ancient Egypt. Fattah packs volumes of flavour with protein-rich ingredients like rice, beef, tomato sauce, vinegar and garlic. Served as a main dish, here is an easy recipe of Fattah from Amira’s Pantry.
