Savoring the flavors of Ramadan: Break your fast with these mouthwatering recipes. Perfectly crafted for Sehri and Iftar, these dishes will keep your body nourished throughout the day. Explore a range of traditional and innovative options, from stuffed dates to vegan kebabs, that cater to both practitioners and non-practitioners alike.
Whether you’re seeking a satisfying meal to break your fast or looking to infuse more Middle-Eastern delights into your daily routine, these Ramadan recipes have got you covered.
Authentic Kunafa (Knafeh)
Imagine being transported to the exotic Middle East through the sweetness of a decadent dessert. Shredded phyllo pastry combines with cream cheese, crushed pistachios, and the subtle essence of rose water syrup to create a treat that’s truly divine. This show-stopping recipe is sure to impress your dinner party guests, leaving them grateful for the culinary indulgence.
Pistachio Baklava
Indulge in the sweet and satisfying delight that is baklava! The harmonious blend of crispy, buttery pastry layers and nutty filling is nothing short of sinful. To create this majestic treat, we’ll employ an impressive thirty layers of flaky phyllo dough. With each bite, the tender pastry dissolves effortlessly on your palate, leaving a lasting impression of unforgettable sweetness and texture.
Kolak
In Indonesian cuisine, a traditional dish is often savored as an evening repast to conclude one’s fasting period. Its versatility extends beyond this occasion, allowing it to be served for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a sweet treat at the end of the day. The true essence of this coconut milk pudding lies in the incorporation of pandanus leaf, a fundamental component that can be sourced from specialty grocery stores or online marketplaces.
As an alternative, bottled extract can also be utilized to achieve similar results.
Sheer Khurma
In the culinary traditions of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, there’s one dessert that stands out as a crowd-pleaser: its rich flavor profile and velvety texture have earned it a special place in the hearts of many. If you’ve yet to experience this sweet delight, consider yourself fortunate; for those who have, they’ll attest to its irresistible allure.
By combining the natural sweetness of milk with the lusciousness of dates, the crunch of fine vermicelli, the added nuttiness of nuts, and the creamy richness of ghee, this dessert is a masterclass in textures and flavors that will leave everyone craving more.
Um Ali /Om Ali-Ramadan Special
In the heart of Egyptian cuisine lies a sweet treat that’s both nostalgic and comforting: a classic dessert comprising flaky pastry, rehydrated dried fruits, and the unmistakable warmth of coconut. This beloved delight is often served during the revered month of Ramadan, but its appeal extends far beyond the fasting period. As a source of solace and joy, it’s a treasured comfort food that can be savored at any time of the year.
Jallab (Middle Eastern Date Raisin Drink)
This delightful beverage has earned its place in the hearts of people from Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Palestine, where it’s widely enjoyed. If you’re looking to try something new, this refreshing drink could become your go-to favorite! To make it, you’ll need a few key ingredients: carob, dates, grape molasses, and rose water. For an added touch of elegance, garnish with pine nuts. The flavor profile is quite distinct, reminiscent of sweet, syrupy grape juice.
Batata Vada
Indulge in the delightful fusion of Indian flavors with Batata Vada, a mouth-watering mashed potato dumpling smothered in chickpea flour and deep-fried to perfection. This crispy treat is an ideal choice for those seeking to tantalize their taste buds with something fresh and exciting. To elevate its flavor profile, serve it alongside a zesty chutney that complements the richness of the Batata Vada, resulting in a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Bread Masala
Looking for a creative and delicious snack to impress your guests at your next gathering? Look no further! You can whip up a mouthwatering treat using leftover bread, easily transforming it into a flavorful delight with the addition of masala spices. This straightforward recipe is quick to prepare, requiring only minutes of your time, making it perfect for even the most hectic party preparations.
Fried Eggplant Fries
A game-changer in the world of snacks, these eggplant fries offer a significantly healthier alternative to traditional options. With significantly fewer calories than their fried counterparts, they’re not only a guilt-free indulgence but also a flavorful one. The crispy exterior and spongy interior provide an addictive texture, making them irresistible when paired with a spicy chutney or creamy mayo.
Together, these elements come together to create a truly savory and satisfying treat that will leave you wanting more.
Saudi Arabian Kabsa {Chicken and Rice}
Indulge in Kabsa, a mouthwatering chicken and rice dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings after a long day. To prepare this flavorful feast, start by slow-cooking the chicken in a spicy tomato broth, allowing it to absorb all the aromatic goodness. Next, grill the chicken to achieve a perfect charred crust, adding depth and texture to each bite. But that’s not all – cook the rice directly in the same savory broth used for the chicken.
This clever trick allows each grain of rice to soak up the rich flavors, resulting in a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. Trust us, you’ll be craving more Kabsa after just one satisfying serving.
Mantu Recipe (Afghan Beef Ravioli)
Imagine indulging in tender, succulent beef dumplings reminiscent of Italian ravioli, but elevated by a rich and tangy creamy yogurt sauce. This delectable Afghan-inspired recipe is sure to wow your guests and leave them craving more. The combination of flavors and textures is nothing short of spectacular, with the beef’s natural juiciness perfectly balanced by the cooling zip of the yogurt sauce.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party or a larger gathering, this show-stopping dish is guaranteed to make a lasting impression.
Kisir (Spicy Turkish bulgur wheat salad)
Kisir, reminiscent of tabbouleh, is a breeze to prepare. Its refreshing essence makes it an ideal choice for sizzling summer days, and its bold flavors will leave you wanting more. The best part? You can easily prepare extra portions that will only get better with time, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick lunch throughout the week.
Aloo Tikki
On a chilly winter morning, there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a satisfying Indian potato cutlet. The combination of tender potatoes and bold spices is a match made in heaven. When pan-fried to a golden crisp, the exterior yields to a fluffy interior that simply melts in your mouth. Pair it with a tangy chutney for dipping, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to warm both body and soul.
Green Chicken | Hariyali Chicken
Imagine a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also catches your eye with its vibrant appearance. The green chicken recipe delivers just that, boasting an explosion of flavors and a mesmerizing emerald hue. The secret to this culinary masterpiece lies in the sauce, a harmonious blend of Greek yogurt, fresh mint, coriander, garlic, and green chilies.
By simply whizzing these ingredients together and slathering them onto the chicken, followed by a quick sauté, you’ll be rewarded with an effortless yet extraordinary dining experience.
Masala Chaas | Indian Buttermilk Recipe
On scorching summer days, this revitalizing beverage is a true lifesaver. Unlike traditional smoothies, which often rely on sweet flavors to quench thirst, this refreshing concoction delivers savory notes that will leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed with each sip. The harmonious blend of ginger, cumin, and curry spices creates an unforgettable drinking experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Bread Cheese Burst Pizza
For those chaotic days when you’re in desperate need of a quick and satisfying lunch solution, look no further than this delectable recipe. To bring it all together, simply gather some bread, an assortment of colorful vegetables, and a generous helping of melted cheese. However, be warned: the tangy sauce packs quite a punch with its bold chili flavor, so get ready for a taste bud explosion that will leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed.
Chickpea Burger
Indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable chickpea burger, perfect for satisfying vegetarians at your next outdoor gathering. The combination of tangy feta cheese, sweet red onions, and chewy sundried tomatoes creates a taste experience that will leave everyone wanting more – even meat-eaters will be impressed by its bold flavors.
Namak Pare
Get ready to wow your guests with this delectable Indian snack that’s sure to generate buzz at your next social gathering. The combination of crispy fried dough, rich ghee, and subtle carom seeds creates a flavor profile that will leave them wanting more. And the best part? These bite-sized morsels are incredibly easy to prepare and pair perfectly with a steaming cup of tea.
Vegan Kebab
The delightful vegan kabab is a boon for many reasons. One major advantage is that it provides an excellent opportunity to cater to vegan preferences during Ramadan. Additionally, these kababs are remarkably simple to prepare, requiring only a few minutes of blending, sautéing, and serving. This convenience makes them perfect for busy days or unexpected gatherings.
Whether enjoyed in a falafel wrap, atop a fresh salad, or as a standalone snack with a side of tangy dipping sauce, vegan kababs are sure to please.
Lebanese Mujadara
With just three ingredients, this savory vegan dish packs a protein-rich punch. A simple combination of rice and lentils forms the foundation of this hearty meal, while the sweet and savory caramelized onions add depth and complexity to each bite. This versatile recipe is perfect for enjoying on its own or using as a base for other creative culinary endeavors. Its simplicity belies its endless possibilities, making it an excellent addition to any vegan’s repertoire.
Turkish Flatbread Bazlama
Crafting the perfect flatbread is often a balancing act between crispy texture and fluffy interior. This simple yet flavorful recipe achieves just that by combining only five ingredients: flour, yeast, olive oil, yogurt, and water. The addition of yogurt proves to be the game-changer, infusing the bread with a rich moisture that rivals naan bread’s reputation.
Whether you serve it alongside hummus and baba ganoush for a satisfying starter or use it as a side dish for your main course, this recipe is sure to please. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a crowd-pleaser, so don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings and pairings.
Chicken Rendang
Indulge in the extraordinary taste of this delectable chicken dish, infused with an array of aromatic spices including coconut, cardamom, star anise, and lemongrass. The slow-cooked and stewed rendang sauce is so richly flavorful that it’s sure to become a household favorite, impressing your family with its bold, complex taste profile.
Lebanese Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)
When it comes to Lebanese cuisine, there’s no denying the allure of stuffed grape leaves as a mouthwatering appetizer. To prepare this Middle Eastern delicacy, start by taking a fresh grape leaf and filling it with a flavorful mixture of ground beef and rice. Each bite is packed with rich, savory flavor that’s sure to leave you craving more. The best part? You can easily adapt the recipe to suit vegetarian tastes by substituting the ground beef with nutritious options like millet or bulgur.
Stuffed Dates with Cream Cheese and Nuts
Ramadan is deeply tied to dates, making them an integral component of the holy month. To seamlessly integrate these natural wonders into your daily life, consider whipping up a batch of stuffed dates. This delectable treat requires mere minutes to prepare and serves as a scrumptious appetizer or dessert option.
These indulgent morsels expertly balance sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, ensuring they’ll be the star attraction on any charcuterie board.
Their versatility also makes them an excellent addition to gatherings, whether casual or formal.
Kibbeh (Kibbe Balls)
Kibbe embodies the essence of Middle-Eastern comfort cuisine. A harmonious blend of meat and spices is nestled within a delicate shell constructed from bulgar and additional meat. This delectable filling is then carefully fried to create an irresistible treat. While the recipe may initially appear complex, the end result is well worth the effort.
Consider serving these bite-sized morsels at your next gathering or sports party – I confidently predict they’ll disappear in no time, leaving you wondering where it all went!
Keema Samosa
My passion for Samosas knows no bounds, but it’s the keema filling that truly takes them to new heights. The harmonious blend of minced lamb and aromatic spices wrapped in a crispy pastry shell is nothing short of magic. What’s more, this show-stopping appetizer is surprisingly easy to recreate at home, eliminating the need for an exotic getaway or reliance on takeout.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
For those who can’t get enough of the rich flavors found in traditional stuffed grape leaves, this recipe offers a delightful twist. By substituting cabbage leaves for the usual grape leaves, you’ll discover a whole new level of comfort food. The outcome is not only tender and buttery but also infused with an unforgettable flavor profile that will leave you craving more.
Bolani (Afghan Stuffed Flatbread)
Indulge in the delightful Bolani experience! This delectable flatbread boasts a treasure trove of flavors and textures, packed with potatoes, aromatic herbs, and a medley of spices. The harmonious blend of savory notes is sure to leave you craving more. Who can resist the allure of potato-stuffed bread? I certainly won’t be able to get enough!
Spinach Fatayer
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors and textures offered by these bite-sized triangles. Paired with a creamy hummus, flavorful lahm bi ajeen, or crispy kibbe, each morsel is packed with succulent spinach and a hint of spice that will leave you craving more. What’s more, this recipe is deceptively easy to prepare, requiring only a few hours of your time on a lazy afternoon. So why not get creative in the kitchen and give it a try?
Ful Medames
Are you looking for a break from the usual savory breakfast options? Look no further than this traditional Egyptian breakfast that’s sure to spice things up. Imagine starting your day with a hearty bowl of creamy fava beans, infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic, lemon, and cumin. Not only is it a nutritious way to fuel up before a day of fasting, but it’s also incredibly delicious. This unique breakfast offering is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Fattoush
In many households that observe Ramadan, this refreshing salad becomes a staple for the entire month-long celebration. Its irresistible flavor profile has earned it a spot at every dinner table. A single bite of this savory delight transports you to a world of flavors, where the combination of fresh vegetables, zesty vinaigrette, and crispy pita chips will leave you craving more with each spoonful.
Fruit Chaat
While fruit salad is a beloved treat in many cultures, the Pakistani version offers a distinct twist with the addition of chaat masala, imbuing the dish with a warm and inviting flavor. This unique spice blend adds an extra layer of complexity to the familiar mix of fresh fruits, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a healthier dessert option that still packs a punch.