Ramadan is here, and you know what that means – time to religiously fast and break it with some amazing Iftar spreads. We're talking about those sweet dates to kick things off, maybe some refreshing cucumber yoghurt salad to cool down. Then comes the fun part – savoury snacks like Crispy Samosas, Crunchy Chicken Pakoras, Halwa Puri or some Shami Kebab for a little indulgence. And of course, no Iftar party dishes is complete without a hearty main course, be it a flavourful biryani or a comforting chicken curry. It's a feast for the senses and a great way to celebrate with family and friends.
Here are some of the best Iftar dishes you must try this Ramadan
Shami Kebab
These minced meat patties are packed with flavour and won't leave anyone feeling heavy after a long day of fasting. Additionally, they're incredibly versatile – serve them alongside creamy mint chutney for dipping, tuck them into warm rotis for a handheld treat, or arrange them on a platter with other appetisers for a colourful and satisfying start to your Iftar feast. Your guests are sure to love these delicious bites.
Also Read: Shami Kabab Recipe By Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi
Haleem
This slow-cooked stew made with wheat, lentils, meat (usually mutton or chicken), and a rich blend of spices is perfect for breaking your fast. It's packed with protein and slow-burning carbs to keep you energised for the rest of the evening, and the comforting, flavourful broth is a delight for anyone who's been waiting all day to eat. Plus, it's a dish traditionally associated with Ramadan celebrations, making it extra special for your Iftar gathering.
Also Read: Try Out Hyderabad’s Best Haleem
Biryani
Listing Iftar dishes without Briyani, no chance! This fragrant rice dish, packed with succulent meat or tender vegetables, is a one-stop shop for flavour and satisfaction. The beauty of biryani is its versatility. You can choose a classic chicken biryani, a lighter vegetarian option, or a lamb biryani for a richer taste. Each bite explodes with warm spices and fluffy rice, perfectly complementing the lighter dishes enjoyed earlier in the Iftar. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser – guaranteed to leave your guests happy and fueled for the rest of the evening.
AlsoRead: Best Biryani Recipes That You Can Try At Home
Pakora
The fritters (pakora) come in endless varieties, from classic onion and potato to flavorful chicken or melty paneer. They're quick to prepare, perfect for those busy pre-dusk hours, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Plus, a platter of assorted pakoras offers something for everyone, making them a crowd-pleasing appetiser that's both delicious and festive – the ideal way to break your fast and share the spirit of Ramadan with loved ones.
Also Read: Chinese Pakoda Recipe
Chicken buns
These bite-sized delights are not just delicious, but also incredibly convenient for your guests. Imagine fluffy, golden buns bursting with a savoury, perfectly spiced chicken filling. They're perfect for those who want a little more than dates and light bites to break their fast. The filling can be customised with your favourite spices like cumin, coriander, and ginger, offering a warm welcome after a long day of fasting. Also, they're easy to eat while mingling and catching up with loved ones. The beauty? You can prepare them in advance, leaving you free to focus on the warmth and joy of sharing this special meal.
Also Read: Chicken Burger Recipe By Chef Smit Sagar
Murgh Musallam
This regal dish is a succulent whole chicken, marinated to tender perfection in a warm blend of spices like ginger, garlic, and coriander. Inside, it's bursting with fragrant rice, perhaps even some slivered almonds or cashews for a textural surprise. But wait, there's more! The real magic lies in the rich gravy, simmered to perfection and ready to coat the chicken in a symphony of flavour.
Sooji Halwa Puri
The Ramadan special food Sooji Halwa Puri, is a classic combination that is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering something for everyone at the table. The halwa itself is a symphony of textures, with the semolina cooked to a smooth consistency and studded with nuts and raisins for a delightful bite. It's a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with sweetness and subtle warm spices.
Also Read: Sooji Halwa Recipe
Nalli Nihari
Nalli Nihari, the royal dish from the kitchens of Lucknow is a slow-cooked stew that is a true labour of love, featuring melt-in-your-mouth lamb shanks simmered for hours in a rich, bone-deep broth. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or rice, making it a complete and nourishing meal. As the dish gets prepared the intoxicating aroma of warm spices like cloves, cardamom, and black pepper wafts through the air.
Also Read: Nalli Nihari Recipe
Chicken Baida Roti
Amp up your Iftar Dawat with a delightful fusion of textures and flavours – Chicken Baida Roti! This street food favourite is the perfect hand-held treat for breaking your Ramadan fast. Imagine a crispy, flaky roti enclosing a treasure trove of goodness. Inside, succulent minced chicken is bursting with warm spices, offering a savoury punch. But wait, there's more! A fluffy omelette adds a delightful textural contrast, making each bite a flavour adventure. Chicken Baida Roti is the ideal portion size for those seeking something more substantial than dates but lighter than a full biryani.
As you embark on this journey of fasting, prioritise your well-being. Listen to your body, stay hydrated with plenty of water, and fuel it with nourishing meals. Don't forget the importance of prayer and reflection during this holy month. May your fast be filled with blessings, strength, and inner peace. Happy Ramadan! May Allah bless you.