As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, it's time to prepare for moments of prayer, reflection, and gathering with loved ones. As the sun sets and the question arises, "What should we cook for Iftar tonight?", we're here to help with a variety of delicious ideas. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of 5 mouthwatering Iftar and 5 nourishing Suhoor recipes designed to keep you energized and nourished throughout Ramadan.

At Riwaya, we offer a wide range of quality ingredients like honey and dates to elevate your Ramadan experience and bring the essence of tradition to your table. Explore our curated selection here to enrich your Iftar meals and spiritual connections this Ramadan!

5 best Iftar recipes

1. Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic dish, marrying tender chicken pieces with fragrant basmati rice infused with a blend of spices. 

This dish holds cultural significance and is cherished during Ramadan for its ability to provide sustenance and revitalization after a day of fasting. 

The vibrant colors and rich aroma of the Biryani signify the warmth and communal spirit that accompany Ramadan gatherings.

Why Chicken Biryani is Ideal for Ramadan:

- Sustained Energy Release: The combination of protein-rich chicken and slow-digesting carbohydrates in basmati rice facilitates a gradual release of energy, supporting individuals through the evening after a day of fasting.

- Promotes Satiety: With its medley of spices and protein content, Chicken Biryani helps satiate hunger, offering a feeling of fullness that lasts for hours, enabling individuals to meet their nutritional requirements post-fasting.

- Nutrient-Rich Blend: Infused with cumin, coriander, and turmeric, Chicken Biryani boasts not only enticing flavors but also health benefits. These spices are known for aiding digestion and metabolism, making this dish a well-rounded choice during the fasting period.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces

- 2 cups basmati rice, soaked

- 2 onions, finely sliced

- 2 tomatoes, chopped

- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

- 2 tablespoons garam masala

- 1 teaspoon cumin

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- Handful of mint leaves, chopped

- Handful of cilantro, chopped

- Salt to taste

- 4 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander powder, turmeric powder, chopped mint leaves, chopped cilantro, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Rice:

Boil water in a large pot. Add soaked basmati rice and cook until it's 70% done. Drain and keep aside.

3. Cooking the Biryani:

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.

Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook on medium heat until the chicken is almost cooked through.

Layer the partially cooked rice over the chicken in the pan. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro and mint leaves on top.

Cover the pan with a tight lid. Cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and aromatic.

4. Serve:

Gently mix the biryani before serving, ensuring the rice and chicken are evenly distributed. Garnish with additional cilantro, pepper, and mint leaves if desired.

2. Samosas with Chutney

Samosas are crispy, triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat, wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. Paired with a tangy chutney, these delightful South Asian snacks are perfect for breaking the fast during Ramadan.

Why Samosas with Chutney is Ideal for Ramadan:

- Satisfying and Flavorful: Samosas offer a satisfying crunch and are filled with aromatic spices, providing a flavorful and fulfilling Iftar treat.

- Ease of Consumption: Their convenient size and handheld nature make them easy to eat, ideal for breaking the fast.

- Cultural Significance: Samosas hold cultural significance across South Asia and are cherished as a traditional Iftar snack.

Ingredients:

For Samosas:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup vegetable oil

- 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)

- Salt to taste

- 3-4 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed

- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

- Oil for deep frying

For Chutney:

- 1 cup fresh coriander leaves

- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

- 2 green chilies

- 1-inch ginger piece

- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste

- Salt to taste

- Water as needed

Instructions:

1. Making Samosa Dough:

In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, carom seeds, salt, and oil. Knead into a firm dough using water. Cover and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.

2. Preparing Samosa Filling:

Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add mashed potatoes, peas, coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.

3. Assembling Samosas:

Divide the dough into equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a thin oval-shaped disc and cut it in half. Form a cone by folding and sealing the straight edge of the half disc. Fill the cone with the potato filling, then seal the open edge by applying water.

4. Frying Samosas:

Heat oil in a deep pan. Once hot, gently slide the prepared samosas into the oil and fry on medium heat until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain excess oil on a paper towel.

5. Making Chutney:

Blend coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chilies, ginger, tamarind paste, and salt with a little water until smooth. Adjust consistency as desired.

6. Serving:

Serve the hot, crispy Samosas with the tangy chutney for a delightful Iftar snack.

3. Harira - Moroccan Lentil Soup

Harira is a hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and aromatic spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric. Often enjoyed to break the fast, this soup is nourishing, flavorful, and represents the warmth and comfort of Moroccan cuisine.

Why Harira is Ideal for Iftar:

- Nourishing Ingredients: The combination of lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes provides a nutritious and filling soup, replenishing energy levels after fasting.

- Aromatic Spices: Cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric contribute to the rich and warm flavors, making Harira a delightful and comforting soup.

- Cultural Significance: Harira holds cultural significance in Morocco and North Africa, being a traditional soup enjoyed during Ramadan to break the fast.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained

- 1/2 cup chickpeas (cooked or canned)

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 3 tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes)

- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 1 teaspoon ground ginger

- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Lemon wedges for serving

- Optional: Cooked vermicelli or broken pieces of thin spaghetti

Instructions:

1. Sautéing Aromatics:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.

2. Adding Lentils and Spices:

Stir in rinsed lentils, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, chopped parsley, ground ginger, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Simmering Soup:

Pour in vegetable or chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender and flavors are well combined.

4. Adjusting Consistency (Optional):

If desired, add cooked vermicelli or broken pieces of thin spaghetti to the soup to achieve a thicker consistency.

5. Serving:

Ladle the aromatic and flavorful Harira into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup.

6. Enjoy Warm:

Enjoy the comforting and nourishing Harira as a traditional and flavorsome start to Iftar during Ramadan.

4. Hummus with Pita Bread and Vegetables

Hummus, a creamy and savory dip made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, is a staple in Arabic cuisine. Served alongside warm, soft Pita Bread and fresh vegetables, it creates a delightful experience during Iftar, providing a blend of textures and flavors for breaking the fast.

Why Hummus with Pita Bread is Ideal for Iftar:

- Protein and Fiber: Hummus, being chickpea-based, offers a combination of protein and fiber, providing satiety and essential nutrients after a day of fasting.

- Versatile and Wholesome: Pita Bread and fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers complement the creamy hummus, offering a well-rounded and nourishing meal.

- Ease of Preparation: This dish is simple to prepare, making it a convenient option for breaking the fast during Ramadan.

Ingredients:

- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed

- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)

- 2 tablespoons lemon juice

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt to taste

- Warm Pita Bread, cut into wedges

- Assorted fresh vegetables (cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Hummus:

In a food processor, blend the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency by adding water if needed.

2. Serving with Pita Bread and Vegetables:

Arrange the warm Pita Bread wedges on a serving plate alongside a bowl of freshly made hummus.

3. Preparing Fresh Vegetables:

Wash and slice the assorted fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces for dipping.

4. Enjoying the Dish:

Dive into the flavorsome experience by dipping the Pita Bread and fresh vegetables into the creamy Hummus, savoring the traditional and satisfying Iftar meal during Ramadan.

5. Falafel with Tahini Sauce and Salad

Falafel, made from ground chickpeas or fava beans blended with herbs and spices, is deep-fried to crispy perfection. Served with Tahini Sauce—a creamy sesame-based dressing—and accompanied by a vibrant salad, this dish embodies the essence of traditional Arabic flavors for breaking the fast.

Why Falafel with Tahini Sauce is Ideal for Iftar:

- Rich in Protein: Falafel, being chickpea-based, offers a protein-rich option for replenishing energy after a day of fasting.

- Tahini's Creamy Goodness: Tahini Sauce adds richness and depth to the dish, providing a creamy and flavorful complement to the crispy falafel.

- Balanced Meal with Salad: Pairing falafel with a fresh salad loaded with greens and vegetables ensures a well-rounded and nutritious Iftar.

Ingredients:

For Falafel:

- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained and rinsed)

- 1 small onion, roughly chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Vegetable oil for frying

For Tahini Sauce:

- 1/2 cup tahini paste

- 1/4 cup water

- 2 tablespoons lemon juice

- 1 clove garlic, minced

- Salt to taste

For Salad:

- Mixed greens (lettuce, spinach)

- Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions

- Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Making Falafel:

In a food processor, blend chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper until a coarse mixture forms. Shape into small patties.

2. Frying Falafel:

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the falafel patties until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

3. Preparing Tahini Sauce:

In a bowl, whisk together tahini paste, water, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more water if needed.

4. Assembling Salad:

Toss mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions in a bowl. Dress lightly with lemon juice.

5. Serving:

Arrange the crispy Falafel on a plate alongside the Tahini Sauce and fresh Salad, garnished with lemon wedges.

6. Enjoy the Feast:

Delight in the crispy Falafel with creamy Tahini Sauce and a refreshing Salad for a satisfying and authentic Arabic Iftar during Ramadan.

5 Best Suhoor/Forta Bala/Sehri Recipes 

Prepare for your Suhoor with our range of sunnah foods and essential ingredients. 

Discover the goodness of dates, honey, black seeds in our collection here, designed to fuel your day and enrich your Ramadan rituals.

1. Avocado Toast

Avocado Toast is a simple yet nourishing dish, consisting of ripe avocado mashed onto toasted bread. Its creamy texture and vibrant colors not only entice the palate but also signify a revitalizing meal that aids in preparing for the day ahead during Ramadan.

Why Avocado Toast is Perfect for Suhoor:

- Sustained Energy Release: Avocados are rich in healthy fats and fiber, contributing to a steady release of energy, keeping you fueled throughout the fasting hours.

- Promotes Satiety: The combination of healthy fats and fiber in avocados helps in feeling full for an extended period, ensuring individuals maintain satisfaction and energy levels during the day.

- Nutrient-Dense: Avocados are packed with essential vitamins, including vitamin E, potassium, and folate, providing a nourishing start to the day during Ramadan.

Ingredients:

- 2 ripe avocados

- 4 slices of whole-grain bread

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: crumbled feta cheese, red pepper flakes, fried egg

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Avocado Mash:

Cut ripe avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.

Mash the avocado with a fork until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for flavor.

2. Toasting the Bread:

Toast the slices of whole-grain bread until golden and crispy.

3. Assembling the Avocado Toast:

Spread the mashed avocado generously onto each slice of toasted bread.

Arrange sliced cherry tomatoes on top of the avocado mash.

Optional: Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese or red pepper flakes for added flavor.

4. Serve:

Plate the Avocado Toast and serve immediately, savoring the blend of flavors and textures.

2. Oatmeal with Fruits and Nuts

Oatmeal with Fruits and Nuts is a comforting and hearty dish, blending creamy oats with a medley of fruits and nuts. Its warm and comforting nature makes it an ideal choice for Suhoor, providing sustenance and essential nutrients to begin the day during Ramadan.

Why Oatmeal with Fruits and Nuts is Perfect for Suhoor:

- Sustained Energy Source: Oats are a complex carbohydrate, providing a steady release of energy throughout the fasting period.

- Enhanced Nutritional Value: Combined with fruits like bananas and berries, along with protein-rich nuts such as almonds and walnuts, this dish offers a diverse array of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

- Promotes Fullness: The combination of fiber from oats and the satiating effect of fruits and nuts helps in feeling full for an extended duration during the fasting hours.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup rolled oats

- 2 cups milk or water

- 1 ripe banana, sliced

- 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries)

- Handful of almonds and walnuts, chopped

- Honey or maple syrup for sweetness (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cooking the Oatmeal:

In a saucepan, bring the milk or water to a gentle boil.

Add rolled oats and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats are tender and creamy.

2. Preparing the Toppings:

Slice the ripe banana and wash the mixed berries. Chop the almonds and walnuts.

3. Assembling the Oatmeal Bowl:

Pour the cooked oatmeal into serving bowls.

Top the oatmeal with sliced bananas, mixed berries, and the chopped nuts.

4. Sweetening (Optional):

Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the oatmeal for added sweetness if desired.

5. Serve:

Enjoy the warm and nutritious Oatmeal with Fruits and Nuts immediately to kickstart your day during Ramadan.

3. Labneh Dip with Fresh Vegetables

Labneh Dip, a creamy and tangy Middle Eastern spread made from strained yogurt, pairs beautifully with an assortment of fresh vegetables. This flavorful and wholesome combination makes it an excellent choice for Suhoor, offering a blend of textures and nutrients to kickstart the day during Ramadan.

Why Labneh Dip is Perfect for Suhoor:

- Protein and Probiotics: Labneh, being a strained yogurt, is rich in protein and probiotics, aiding in digestion and providing essential nutrients during the fasting period.

- Versatile Pairing: Labneh Dip complements an array of fresh vegetables, offering a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants crucial for a healthy start to the day.

- Hydration and Satiety: Fresh vegetables provide hydration and fiber, contributing to a feeling of fullness and aiding in staying hydrated during the fasting hours.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups labneh (strained yogurt)

- Assorted fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)

- Olive oil

- Fresh herbs (parsley, mint) for garnish

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: Za'atar seasoning for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Labneh Dip:

Place the labneh in a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well.

2. Preparing the Fresh Vegetables:

Wash and cut the assorted vegetables into sticks or bite-sized pieces for dipping.

3. Serving:

Transfer the Labneh Dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley and mint. Optionally sprinkle Za'atar seasoning for added flavor.

4. Arrange and Serve:

Arrange the freshly cut vegetables around the Labneh Dip bowl for a visually appealing presentation.

5. Enjoy:

Dive into the delightful combination of Labneh Dip and fresh vegetables, relishing the flavors and nutrients as a fulfilling Suhoor option during Ramadan.

4. Whole Grain Pancakes with Mixed Berries

Whole Grain Pancakes are a hearty and satisfying choice, especially when paired with a medley of fresh mixed berries. These pancakes serve as a comforting and energizing option for Suhoor, ensuring a fulfilling and nourishing beginning to the day during Ramadan.

Why Whole Grain Pancakes are Ideal for Suhoor:

- Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grain pancakes offer complex carbohydrates, providing a gradual release of energy throughout the fasting period.

- Nutrient-Rich Berries: Mixed berries bring antioxidants, vitamins, and natural sweetness, enhancing the nutritional value of the meal.

- Satiety and Comfort: The combination of whole grains and berries contributes to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction, supporting individuals through the fasting hours.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup whole wheat flour

- 1 tablespoon baking powder

- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

- 1 egg

- 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)

- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil

- Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

- Optional: Greek yogurt or maple syrup for topping

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Pancake Batter:

In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and baking powder. Add honey/maple syrup, egg, milk, and melted butter/oil. Mix until just combined.

2. Cooking the Pancakes:

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup portions of batter onto the skillet.

Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.

3. Serving with Mixed Berries:

Rinse and prepare the mixed berries. Slice strawberries if desired.

4. Assembling and Serving:

Stack the whole grain pancakes on a plate. Top with a generous serving of mixed berries.

5. Optional Toppings:

Optionally, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or drizzle with maple syrup for added flavor.

6. Enjoy:

Delight in the wholesome and delicious Whole Grain Pancakes with Mixed Berries for a comforting and nutritious Suhoor meal during Ramadan.

5. Egg, Spinach, and Feta Breakfast Wrap

The Egg, Spinach, and Feta Breakfast Wrap is a fulfilling and savory option, incorporating scrambled eggs with vibrant spinach and tangy feta cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. This flavorful and nutritious wrap is an ideal choice for Suhoor, offering a blend of textures and essential nutrients to sustain energy levels during Ramadan.

Why Egg, Spinach, and Feta Wrap is Perfect for Suhoor:

- Protein-Packed: Eggs are a rich source of high-quality protein, providing satiety and sustaining energy levels through the fasting hours.

- Leafy Greens and Calcium: Spinach adds vitamins and minerals, while feta cheese contributes calcium and flavor, enhancing the nutritional profile of the meal.

- Convenient and Portable: This breakfast wrap offers convenience and portability, suitable for individuals seeking a quick yet nourishing meal during Suhoor.

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggs

- Handful of fresh spinach leaves

- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese

- 1 large whole wheat tortilla

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: Sliced tomatoes, avocado, or hot sauce for additional flavor

Instructions:

1. Scrambling the Eggs:

In a bowl, beat the eggs. Season with salt and pepper. Scramble the eggs in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until cooked through.

2. Adding Spinach and Feta:

Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet with the scrambled eggs. Cook until spinach wilts.

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the egg and spinach mixture. Mix gently until combined.

3. Assembling the Wrap:

Warm the whole wheat tortilla in a separate skillet or microwave for a few seconds.

Spoon the egg, spinach, and feta mixture onto the center of the tortilla.

4. Optional Additions:

Add slices of tomatoes, avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor if desired.

5. Rolling the Wrap:

Fold the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then roll it up tightly to create the wrap.

6. Enjoy:

Relish the delicious and nutrient-packed Egg, Spinach, and Feta Breakfast Wrap for a satisfying Suhoor meal during Ramadan.

Conclusion

We hope that our list of ideas has provided you with inspiration and practical suggestions for breaking your fast and for your Suhoor! The right balance of nutrients can help us stay energized, focused, and connected for the day-long fast. However, beyond the delicious food that fills our tables, it is important to remember that Ramadan is a month of prayer, reflection, and self-discipline. Ramadan Mubarak!

Buying at Riwaya

As Ramadan approaches, Riwaya is committed to providing a unique assortment of products that honor the Sunnah foods highly regarded during this sacred month. Our specially curated collection includes revered choices like premium honey, dates, black seeds, and other recommended edibles.

These Sunnah foods not only offer exceptional nutritional value but also echo the practices endorsed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during Ramadan. Explore our selection to enrich your dining experience while staying true to tradition and spirituality.

Selling at Riwaya

At Riwaya, we recognize the diverse needs during Ramadan and invite sellers offering a variety of products that cater to both culinary and spiritual dimensions of this blessed time. 

With Riwaya, you get access to a vast, engaged community of Muslim consumers actively seeking the finest Islamic products  like yours, by joining us, you tap into a network that bridges the gap between Islamic product sellers and the thriving global Muslim community. 

Plus, our platform offers fantastic features and tools to enhance your sales experience, ensuring your products receive the attention they deserve. Become a seller with Riwaya today and let your products find their perfect audience effortlessly.

FAQs

Q1: What is Iftar?

Iftar is the evening meal with which Muslims break their fast at sunset during Ramadan. It starts with the Maghrib (sunset) prayer and typically includes dates, water, followed by a more elaborate meal.

Q2: What is Suhoor?

Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal consumed before the Fajr (dawn) prayer and the beginning of the fasting period for the day. It's important for providing sustenance throughout the day during Ramadan.

Q3: What are some traditional foods eaten during Ramadan?

During Ramadan, traditional foods vary across cultures and regions. Some common dishes include dates, samosas, kebabs, lentil soups, biryanis, and desserts like baklava or kunafa.

Q4: How can I manage portion control and avoid overeating during Iftar?

Practice mindful eating by starting with small portions, eating slowly, and focusing on enjoying the food. Additionally, include a balance of different food groups to promote satiety.

Q5: What are the benefits of fasting during Ramadan?

Aside from spiritual benefits, fasting during Ramadan is believed to encourage self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, detoxification, and a greater appreciation for food and blessings in life.