Did you know that in the month of Ramadan, there are many different kinds of food and drinks that seem as if they only appear during the month of Ramadan? This menu is exceptional, especially as we know, every country has its own signature dishes that are usually served to break the fast in the month of Ramadan.
As an example, consider Middle Eastern countries which consist of 16 countries. Furthermore, each country naturally has a variety of special Iftar dishes that are eagerly awaited by their people. I am going to introduce you to numerous Middle Eastern-style meals that might serve as ideas for your Iftar (and also Eid) menu. Let's get started!
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Lokum, commonly known as Turkish Delight, is a Turkish jelly sweet confection made from a gel of starch and sugar. The origin of this dish originated prior to the nineteenth century and is thought to have emerged in the Anatolian Seljuk Empire and Ottoman Empire kitchens. Thus, this sweet dessert, which has been around for centuries, is currently known as an Iftar starter during Ramadan and is easily found in the marketplace. Apart from that, Lokum is a dish that commemorates the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid al-Fitr.
Lokum offers a range of flavors, including plain, chocolate, strawberry, pistachio, hazelnut, coconut, walnut, almond, orange, and even rose! Isn't this unique? Aside from its unique flavor, this delicious dish makes an excellent accompaniment for those of you who enjoy sipping coffee. The bitter taste of coffee will undoubtedly complement the sweetness of Lokum. Lokum, likewise known as Turkish Delight, is commonly referred to as a soft, jewel-like sugar delicacy due to its stunning, jewel-like shape. Of course, Lokum is highly recommended for you to try!
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The second recommendation is Dolma, which can alternatively be defined as stuffed vegetables. Dolma first appeared and served in Iraq during the Assyrian Period, which lasted between 934 BC and 609 BC. Subsequently, it is said that Dolma is from Thebes, an ancient city located near the Nile River. Of course, Dolma is now a common dish in Middle Eastern countries, particularly Iraq, and it is often featured on special menus for iftar.
Dolma is a dish made of various filled vegetables topped with minced meat, spices, herbs, tomato paste, and rice. You can also use basmati rice to make Dolma. In fact, Dolma makes an excellent side dish for the main Iftar menu. With very flavorful spices and a savory and tasty minced meat topping, it will enhance the delightful taste of Dolma. What's more, you can attempt a variety of intriguing Dolma recipes, which can be great dishes to share with family and friends. Making it the perfect dish according to locals with its taste and variety to share and enhance the Eid celebrations.
Did you know that Yemen has a bread called Khaliat Nahal? Which is a typical food in the form of honeycomb bread and has a pillowy texture. This bread actually means 'beehives' in Arabic because the pattern resembles a beehive. Khaliat Nahal has been popular since 1970 and originated in Yemen.
Khaliat Nahal is usually coated with sugar, honey, or cheese on the outside and filled with a variety of tastes, such as chocolate, strawberry, and others, depending on preference. Of course, this bread is ideal as an appetizer when Iftar time approaches. Eat it when it is still warm to experience the bread's tenderness. This cuisine, which is always popular during Ramadan, can be one of your iftar dinners, and you might even cook it at home!
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If you want to have a pancake experience unlike any other, you should try Qatayef, a traditional Egyptian pancake. Folded Qatayef pancakes are said to have existed since the time of the Fatimid Dynasty. Some say it also originated from the Abbasid Caliphate. Nowadays, this food has become a signature star dish that often appears in the month of Ramadan, especially in Egypt. This historic dessert is also an Eid favorite for some households to follow up on the savory meals and end the Eid meal.
Shaped like a dumpling, these delicious folded pancakes usually have varied fillings such as cream or nuts, and when you taste them, you will have a sensation of 'pop in your mouth' due to the cream and peanut filling. Qatayef's other ingredients include pancake mix, pistachios, dry milk powder, and others. When finished frying, Qatayef will be golden in color and coated with sugar syrup, making it incredibly tasty. You could simply make this at home.
Zoolbia and Bamieh is a signature Ramadan dessert from Iran that has a crunchy and sweet texture.
This dessert is a traditional Iranian dish and comes in two types: Zoolbia and Bamieh. Zoolbia has a crunchy feel and is derived from cornstarch. The shape resembles a funnel cake. Meanwhile, Bamieh resembles churros and has a donut-like texture. After deep frying, Zoolbia and Bamieh will be dipped in sugar syrup, saffron water, and rose water to add taste.
This dessert is not only for Iftar time but can also be served at Suhoor. If you wish to explore several variations of the Iftar menu, you can make Zoolbia and Bamieh.
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Shorbat Addas, often known as lentil soup, is a main dish served during Ramadan. In Lebanon, this dish is a popular Iftar menu option. Ingredients for Fennel Shorbat include yellow lentils, stock, onion, flour, and olive oil. This dish will be even more complete if served with additional garnishes like pita bread and lemon juice.
This type of food is also ideal for warming up your body. Especially if the rainy season hits around Ramadan. After a day of fasting, eating Shorbat Adas can help you warm up and enhance your stamina. Despite its simplicity, this recipe is excellent and can serve as comfort food when Iftar arrives. Especially if it's served with a cup of hot tea and paratha bread when it rains. Your Iftar experience will be more meaningful and serene.
When Ramadan ends, this dish is also a common dish for Lebanese people, making it a must try for you to recreate during non-Ramadan or try by adding it to your Eid platter!
