As the sun sets on the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims around the world come together to break their fast with a delicious and satisfying meal. Known as Iftar, this special feast is a time for family, friends, and community to gather and share in the joy and gratitude of the day. And what better way to celebrate than with a hearty and flavorful spread of dishes? From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional recipes, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 mouth-watering Iftar recipes.
From savory lamb kebabs to sweet and spicy vermicelli pudding, each dish is carefully crafted to satisfy your cravings and nourish your body. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or something more elaborate to impress your guests, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Iftar one to remember!
Chicken Biryani with Saffron and Fried Onions
This aromatic one-pot wonder is a classic Indian dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and fragrant saffron with the crunch of crispy fried onions. A perfect blend of textures and flavors, this recipe makes for a satisfying meal or dinner party centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings (for frying)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/2 tsp red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp hot water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and fry until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
3. In the same pan, add chicken and cook until browned (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Add rice, water, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Stir in saffron and its liquid. Garnish with fried onions, cilantro leaves, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Mint Sauce
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing twist on traditional lamb kebabs. Marinated in a zesty mixture of yogurt, mint, and spices, these tender skewers are perfect for a summer BBQ or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb cubes (shoulder or leg)
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, mint, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add lamb cubes to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread lamb cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with additional yogurt mint sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Vegetable Samosas with Tamarind Chutney
Samosas are a popular Indian snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This recipe combines flavorful vegetable fillings with crispy samosa wrappers, served with a tangy and sweet tamarind chutney.
Ingredients:
For the Samosas:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable filling (see below)
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
+ 1/2 cup peas
+ 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
+ 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
+ 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
+ Salt, to taste
For the Tamarind Chutney:
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons jaggery powder or sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan for frying samosas.
2. Mix the flour, salt, and ghee to make the dough.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out each portion into a thin circle.
4. Place 1-2 teaspoons of vegetable filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a cone shape.
6. Fry the samosas until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
7. To make tamarind chutney, combine all ingredients in a saucepan and boil for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
8. Serve the samosas hot with the tamarind chutney.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes to fry the samosas and prepare the chutney.
Beef Kofta Curry with Basmati Rice
Experience the rich flavors of India with this hearty Beef Kofta Curry served over fluffy Basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef mince (80% lean)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
– 1 cup Basmati rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine beef mince, onion, garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
3. Form into small koftas and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the baked koftas to the curry sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over Basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil Soup with Garlic and Lemon
Lentil Soup with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
This hearty and flavorful lentil soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. The addition of garlic and lemon adds a bright and zesty twist to this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Spiced Rice and Ground Meat
This flavorful recipe combines tender bell peppers with aromatic spiced rice and savory ground meat, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add ground meat, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the spiced rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until bell peppers are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Falafel Wrap with Tahini Sauce
Transform a humble wrap into a flavorful feast with crispy falafel, creamy tahini sauce, and fresh veggies. This Middle Eastern-inspired delight is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and water for falafel mixture
– Pita bread
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, pickled turnips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix chickpeas, flour, baking powder, cumin, paprika, and salt.
3. Add lemon juice and olive oil; mix until smooth.
4. Shape into patties and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
5. In a separate bowl, blend tahini, garlic, and lemon juice with a pinch of salt.
6. Warm pita bread in the oven or microwave.
7. Assemble wraps by spreading tahini sauce, adding falafel, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and pickled turnips (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Fish with Garlic and Herb Marinade
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic grilled fish recipe, featuring a zesty garlic and herb marinade. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as salmon, tilapia, or cod), 6 oz each
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, and thyme. Blend until smooth.
3. Place fish fillets in a shallow dish. Pour marinade over the fish, making sure each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove fish from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill fish for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Date and Nut Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are packed with natural energy-boosting ingredients like dates, nuts, and oats. Perfect for a pre-workout snack or a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats and almonds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dates and honey until well combined.
3. Add the date mixture to the oat mixture and stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None!
Roasted Eggplant with Tomato and Chickpea Stew
Roasted Eggplant with Tomato and Chickpea Stew: A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the smoky sweetness of roasted eggplant with the tangy freshness of tomatoes and chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
4. Add cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Simmer stew for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve roasted eggplant on top of the tomato-chickpea stew, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Get ready for a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired treat! This recipe combines juicy chicken, crispy pita bread, and creamy garlic sauce for an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Garlic Sauce (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: tomato, onion, cucumber, pickles, parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken strips to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for a few minutes.
5. Assemble sandwiches with cooked chicken, garlic sauce, and desired toppings.
Garlic Sauce Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including marinating time)
Spinach and Cheese Fatayer
This recipe yields a delicious and savory pastry filled with spinach and cheese, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. With its flaky crust and flavorful filling, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling:
+ 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
+ 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
+ 1 tablespoon olive oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Gradually add vegetable oil and warm water, mixing until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
6. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
7. Place 1 tablespoon of spinach-feta mixture onto the center of each circle.
8. Fold edges over to form a triangle or square shape, pressing gently to seal.
9. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Potato Stew with Warm Bread
Cozy up with this hearty beef and potato stew, served with a side of warm bread for dipping. A comforting classic that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to the pot, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until potatoes are tender.
5. Serve stew hot with warm bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Fried Dumplings with Spiced Meat Filling
A classic Chinese dish that combines the comforting warmth of dumplings with the aromatic flavors of spiced meat, these fried treats are a delightful snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spiced Meat Filling (see below)
– Optional: soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes for dipping
Spiced Meat Filling:
– 1 pound ground pork or beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
5. Place 1 tablespoon of spiced meat filling in the center.
6. Fold and seal the dumpling.
7. Fry dumplings in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil with paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fruit Chaat with a Sprinkle of Chaat Masala
Experience the vibrant flavors of India’s street food with this colorful and refreshing fruit chaat recipe, elevated by the warm, aromatic spices of chaat masala.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruits (such as pineapple, orange, apple, grapes)
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon chaat masala
– Chopped cilantro or mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the mixed fruits into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt and honey until smooth.
3. Add the chopped fruits to the yogurt mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the chaat masala evenly over the fruit mixture.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint leaves.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic
Elevate your lamb chops game with this simple yet aromatic recipe, featuring the earthy goodness of rosemary and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops, making sure they’re well coated.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb chops for 1-2 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Stuffed Grape Leaves with Rice and Herbs
A classic Middle Eastern dish, Dolma (stuffed grape leaves) is a flavorful and nutritious treat perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This recipe combines fragrant herbs and fluffy rice with tender grape leaves, resulting in a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse grape leaves in cold water, then blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds to remove bitterness.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, mint, scallions, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture at the stem end.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in both sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Cook stuffed grape leaves in boiling salted water for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Serve warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pomegranate and Walnut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pomegranate with the earthiness of walnuts, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and chopped walnuts.
2. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional pomegranate seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in 5-10 minutes)
Sweet Vermicelli Pudding with Cardamom
Sweet Vermicelli Pudding with Cardamom
This creamy pudding is a unique twist on traditional desserts, incorporating the sweet and aromatic flavors of cardamom. Perfect for warm weather, this dessert is light, refreshing, and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vermicelli noodles
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cardamom, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
4. Add cooked vermicelli noodles to the pudding mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chickpea and Potato Curry
This vibrant curry is a flavorful blend of chickpeas, potatoes, and spices that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. The spicy kick from the cumin and chili flakes adds depth to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, potato, chickpeas, cumin, chili flakes, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Iftar, the traditional evening meal during Ramadan, doesn’t have to be boring. Try these 20 delicious recipes for a hearty and flavorful meal! From classic dishes like Chicken Biryani with Saffron and Fried Onions to innovative options like Stuffed Bell Peppers with Spiced Rice and Ground Meat, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or sweet, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Get inspired and plan a memorable Iftar feast with family and friends!
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