Iftar, the traditional evening meal during Ramadan, is a time to come together with loved ones and savor delicious flavors. As the sun sets and the fast is broken, families gather around the table to share in the joy and hospitality of this sacred month. And what better way to break one’s fast than with a plate full of mouthwatering dishes?
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delectable iftar recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and become new family favorites. From classic biryani and kebabs to innovative desserts and snacks, our collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration, these recipes are sure to help you make this Ramadan one to remember.
In the following pages, we’ll be featuring a range of dishes from around the world, each with its own unique flavors and textures. From savory meats and rich curries to sweet treats and refreshing drinks, our iftar recipes are designed to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling full and content until the next day’s fast.
So let’s get started on this culinary journey through Ramadan! Here are some of the delicious iftar recipes we’ll be featuring in this article:
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Chicken Biryani with Saffron and Fried Onions
A classic Indian dish that combines the flavors of saffron, spices, and tender chicken with a crunchy fried onion topping. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced and separated into individual rings
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet and sauté the chicken until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then fry the onion rings in batches until crispy and golden brown.
4. Combine the cooked rice, chicken, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
5. Soak saffron threads in hot water for 5 minutes, then mix with the rice mixture.
6. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
7. Transfer the biryani mixture to a greased oven-safe dish or individual portions.
8. Garnish with fried onions and fresh cilantro.
9. Cook in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Mint Sauce
Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Mint Sauce: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional kebabs, perfect for a summer barbecue or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb cubes ( shoulder or leg)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the Yogurt Mint Sauce:
+ 1 cup plain yogurt
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
+ 2 tablespoons lemon juice
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Add lamb cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. For the Yogurt Mint Sauce: Mix all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Samosas with Tamarind Chutney
A classic Indian snack gets a flavorful twist with this recipe for Vegetable Samosas paired with a tangy Tamarind Chutney.
Ingredients:
For the samosas:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
For the filling:
– 1 medium potato, boiled and diced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 small cabbage head, shredded
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
For the tamarind chutney:
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Add ghee or oil and lukewarm water. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into small portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
3. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold and press the edges to seal.
4. Fry the samosas until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
5. For the tamarind chutney, combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes or until thickened. Serve with warm samosas.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Kofta Curry with Basmati Rice
Experience the rich flavors of India with this hearty beef kofta curry served over fluffy basmati rice. This aromatic dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef mince
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix beef, onion, garlic, ghee or oil, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Shape into 8-10 koftas.
2. Cook koftas in a non-stick skillet for 5 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
3. In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes and cook until heated through.
4. Serve kofta curry over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Date and Walnut Stuffed Phyllo Pastries
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and sweet Date and Walnut Stuffed Phyllo Pastries. Perfect for a quick indulgence or as a thoughtful gift, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together dates, walnuts, honey, brown sugar, and salt until well combined.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 12 equal squares.
5. Place a spoonful of the date-walnut mixture in the center of each square.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form triangles or squares, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with melted butter for an extra crispy finish.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil Soup with Lemon and Cumin
Lentil Soup with Lemon and Cumin: A Bright and Hearty Start to the Day
This comforting lentil soup is infused with the warmth of cumin and the brightness of lemon, making it a perfect remedy for a chilly morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Fish with Spicy Mango Salsa
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and heat with this refreshing summer recipe. Succulent fish paired with a spicy mango salsa is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as tilapia or mahi-mahi)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic in a bowl.
5. Stir well and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve grilled fish topped with spicy mango salsa.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Falafel Wraps with Tahini Dressing
These flavorful wraps are a perfect blend of Middle Eastern flavors and textures, with crispy falafel patties wrapped in a soft pita and topped with creamy tahini dressing. Serve them as a snack or light meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tahini dressing (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, pickled turnips, and/or other toppings of your choice
Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– Garlic powder to taste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Form into patties and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
5. Assemble wraps by spreading tahini dressing on pita bread, adding falafel, lettuce, tomato, pickled turnips, and other toppings of your choice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Fatayer
Fatayers are a popular Middle Eastern pastry filled with savory ingredients. This Spinach and Cheese Fatayer recipe brings together the earthy flavor of spinach and the creaminess of cheese in a flaky, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
+ 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
+ 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add melted butter and lukewarm water; mix until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Place a tablespoon or two of spinach and cheese filling in the center of the dough circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape; press edges together to seal.
8. Brush tops with melted butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Potato Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the earthy sweetness of potatoes. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (4 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water or vegetable broth for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
3. Add chickpeas, potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in diced tomatoes and enough water or broth to cover the ingredients.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and nutritious recipe featuring ground beef, rice, and tender bell peppers. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or a quick meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and olive oil. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling them as full as possible.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Eggplant with Garlic Yogurt
A flavorful and refreshing summer side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplants are tender and lightly browned.
4. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, minced garlic, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Once the eggplant is done, let it cool slightly before tossing with the garlic yogurt sauce.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pomegranate Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Pomegranate Glazed Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Sweet and tangy, these pomegranate glazed chicken drumsticks are a perfect combination of flavors for a delicious appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and pour the glaze over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, basting occasionally with the remaining glaze.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Vermicelli Pudding with Cardamom
This traditional Indian dessert is a creamy and aromatic treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. The addition of cardamom gives it a unique and complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vermicelli
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the vermicelli according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and ground cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Add the cooked vermicelli to the milk mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Remove from heat and add the ghee or butter. Stir until melted and smooth.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with chopped pistachios, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic
Elevate your lamb chops to new heights by combining the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together rosemary and garlic.
3. Brush lamb chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place lamb chops on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush lamb chops with the rosemary-garlic mixture.
6. Let lamb chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total, depending on grill temperature and lamb thickness.
Fried Dumplings with Spiced Meat Filling
Experience the warmth of a traditional comfort food with these crispy fried dumplings filled with a flavorful spiced meat mixture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spiced Meat Filling:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 teaspoon ground cumin
+ 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place a tablespoon of spiced meat filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press edges together to seal.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry dumplings for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
9. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Pomegranate and Mint
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweetness of pomegranate, crunch of pistachios, and freshness of mint. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup toasted pistachios, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, pomegranate seeds, mint leaves, and feta cheese (if using).
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Sprinkle toasted pistachios on top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply combine ingredients and serve.
Beef and Lentil Haleem
Haleem, a popular dish in many Middle Eastern cultures, is a slow-cooked stew made with beef, lentils, and a blend of spices. This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef and lentils with aromatic spices to create a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (preferably shank or brisket), cut into small pieces
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until they start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the beef, lentils, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well.
4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 2 hours or until the lentils are tender and the meat is falling apart.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Stuffed Grape Leaves with Lemon Drizzle
Experience the Mediterranean’s finest flavors in this savory and sweet dish. Fresh grape leaves wrapped around a mixture of rice, meat, and spices, served with a tangy lemon drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 20 grape leaves
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Lemon Drizzle: 2 lemons, juiced; 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay grape leaves flat, with the stem end facing you.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of each leaf.
5. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
6. Place stuffed grape leaves seam-side down in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until grape leaves are tender.
8. For the Lemon Drizzle, whisk together lemon juice and honey. Serve over the stuffed grape leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosewater and Pistachio Milk Cake
Rosewater and Pistachio Milk Cake: A Delicate and Fragrant Treat
This cake is a masterpiece of Indian-inspired flavors, with the sweetness of milk, the nutty flavor of pistachios, and the delicate hint of rosewater. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon rosewater
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Pour in milk and egg; whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in rosewater and chopped pistachios.
5. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Iftar, the meal eaten after sunset during Ramadan, is a time to come together with family and friends. For many, it’s also a chance to try new recipes and flavors. In this article, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering iftar recipes that are sure to impress. From classic dishes like beef kofta curry and lamb chops with rosemary and garlic, to innovative twists on traditional recipes like pomegranate glazed chicken drumsticks and quinoa salad with pomegranate and mint. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a more elaborate meal, we have you covered.