As the sun sets on a long day of fasting during Ramadan, there’s no better way to break your fast than with a delicious and satisfying meal. Iftar, the evening meal that marks the end of the daily fast, is a time for family and friends to come together and share in the joy and blessings of the holy month.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 flavorful recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From hearty stews and soups to sweet treats and snacks, these dishes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting an iftar gathering or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your meal routine.
Whether you’re a meat-lover, vegetarian, or something in between, there’s something on this list for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the flavors of Ramadan!
Spiced Lamb and Chickpea Stew
Warm up with this flavorful and aromatic stew, perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of tender lamb, creamy chickpeas, and comforting spices will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups lamb or beef broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chickpeas and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Lentil Soup with Garlic Bread
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and nutritious creamy lentil soup, served with crispy garlic bread for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– 4 slices of bread, for garlic bread
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter bread slices and sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Date and Walnut Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with the natural sweetness of dates and the crunch of walnuts. This flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together dates, walnuts, olive oil, garlic, and paprika.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the date-walnut mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fragrant Vegetable Biryani
This flavorful and aromatic vegetable biryani recipe is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and mixed vegetables, sure to tantalize your taste buds. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, cauliflower, and carrots)
– 2 teaspoons biryani masala
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and potato; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add mixed vegetables, biryani masala, and salt. Stir well.
4. Layer cooked rice and vegetable mixture in a large pot or casserole dish.
5. Cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the rice is heated through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Golden Fried Sambusas with Minced Meat
These crispy fried sambusas are filled with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, onions, and spices. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of sambusa wrappers (about 20-25 pieces)
– 1 lb minced beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine minced beef, chopped onion, garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Mix well.
3. Lay a sambusa wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a triangle. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry the sambusas in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (including preparation time)
Sweet and Savory Honey Glazed Chicken
Transform plain chicken into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this simple recipe. This glaze combines the richness of honey with the boldness of soy sauce, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rich and Creamy Butter Chicken
Savor the rich flavors of tender chicken cooked in a creamy butter sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Once melted, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add chicken back into the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Transfer to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fluffy Cheese and Herb Fatayer
A classic Middle Eastern pastry filled with a creamy cheese and herb mixture, perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fatayer dough (or puff pastry)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cheese, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out fatayer dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
4. Spoon the cheese mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush pastry with beaten egg and cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Falafel with Tahini Sauce
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this crispy and flavorful falafel recipe, served with a rich and creamy tahini sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Tahini sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup tahini, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/4 cup water, 1 minced garlic clove, salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add parsley, cilantro, garlic, lemon juice, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties.
5. Place falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, prepare tahini sauce by whisking all ingredients together in a bowl.
8. Serve warm falafel with tahini sauce.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Tender Beef Kofta in Tomato Gravy
This recipe yields juicy beef koftas smothered in a rich and flavorful tomato gravy, perfect for serving with crusty bread or over rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape into 8-10 koftas. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the koftas are cooking, heat the tomato paste in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mixed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until the gravy thickens slightly.
5. Serve the koftas with the warm tomato gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Refreshing Cucumber and Yogurt Salad
Perfect for hot summer days, this light and refreshing salad is a great way to beat the heat. The creamy yogurt and crunchy cucumber come together to create a delicious and healthy side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and chopped dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add garlic powder for an extra boost of flavor.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Sweet Vermicelli Pudding with Cardamom
Sweet Vermicelli Pudding with Cardamom: A fragrant and creamy dessert that combines the comforting warmth of vermicelli pudding with the sweet, spicy flavor of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vermicelli
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vermicelli and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vermicelli is tender (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, cardamom, and salt.
3. Melt butter into the pudding mixture.
4. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
5. Refrigerate until chilled and set (at least 2 hours).
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
This sweet vermicelli pudding is perfect for warm weather, with its creamy texture and delicate cardamom flavor. Serve it as a light dessert or snack.
Spicy Potato and Pea Samosas
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional samosas, these Spicy Potato and Pea Samosas are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer. The combination of tender potatoes, sweet peas, and spicy seasonings wrapped in flaky pastry is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 1 package frozen samosa wrappers (about 20-25 wrappers)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat; add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the mixture is fragrant and lightly browned.
3. Add the peas to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Mix the cooked potatoes with the pea mixture; season with salt to taste.
5. Place a spoonful of the potato-pea filling onto the center of a samosa wrapper, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the wrapper into a triangle or a cone shape and press the edges together to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Fry the samosas in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (frying time may vary depending on the thickness of the samosas)
Juicy Grilled Lamb Kebabs
A flavorful twist on traditional lamb skewers, these juicy grilled lamb kebabs are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add lamb cubes and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Warm and Comforting Harira Soup
Harira soup, a traditional North African dish, is a hearty and comforting meal that warms the soul. This recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb, vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a deliciously soothing broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Delicate Rosewater and Pistachio Baklava
This sweet and fragrant baklava combines the delicate flavors of rosewater with the crunch of pistachios, perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup rosewater
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and rosewater.
4. Layer phyllo dough with pistachios and sweetened rosewater mixture, ending with a layer of phyllo on top.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow baklava to cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Zesty Lemon and Herb Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of herbs, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. The aromatic blend of thyme, rosemary, and parsley adds depth to this simple yet impressive rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add water, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Prunes
This rich and flavorful recipe is perfect for a cold winter’s night. Tender lamb shanks are slow-cooked in a sweet and savory prune-filled sauce, resulting in fall-off-the-bone meat that’s simply divine.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup prunes, pitted
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks until browned, about 2 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the lamb shanks to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, prunes, red wine, and beef broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Crunchy Phyllo Cheese Rolls
A delightful twist on traditional cheese rolls, these crunchy phyllo creations are perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing phyllo)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Layer phyllo sheets on a flat surface, brushing each sheet with beaten egg.
5. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto the center of each phyllo sheet.
6. Roll up the phyllo tightly, starting from one end.
7. Brush top of each roll with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley.
8. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sticky Date Cake
Sweet and Sticky Date Cake Recipe
This moist and decadent cake is infused with the natural sweetness of dates and a hint of caramel-like flavor from the brown sugar. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in chopped dates, flour mixture, and buttermilk.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
This Ramadan, treat your family and friends to a delicious iftar with these 20 flavorful recipes. From hearty stews and soups to savory meats and crispy pastries, there’s something for everyone. Try Spiced Lamb and Chickpea Stew or Creamy Lentil Soup with Garlic Bread for a comforting start. For a sweet treat, indulge in Sweet Vermicelli Pudding with Cardamom or Delicate Rosewater and Pistachio Baklava. Or, satisfy your cravings with Crispy Falafel with Tahini Sauce or Juicy Grilled Lamb Kebabs. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to bring joy to your Ramadan celebrations.
