Iftaar—And Two Recipes

Iftaar – and Two Recipes to Make It Great

Ramadan means fasting, charity and being kind to others. Iftaar is one of its defining elements

NANCY AMON

Iftaar is an exceptional experience for Muslims across the world. As part of religion and customs, many celebrate Iftaar, which is part of the meal that breaks the fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

Still, the way South Asians celebrate Ramzan, another term for Ramadan, may not be quite the same way that people in the Middle East do.

WHAT IS IFTAAR?

It is only during Iftaar that Muslims can break the fast that lasts the whole day. Iftaar is essentially breakfast, a smaller meal, more of a snack, eaten before the evening prayers.

The light meal fuels you after a long day of fasting without overwhelming you at a time the call for the evening prayer (Maghrib) occurs.

Indus Iftar is similar to Arabic Iftaars, but Iftar may be a bit heavier with a light snack meal later on during the evening.

COMMUNITY AND TOGETHERNESS

During the Holy month of Ramadan, Muslims all over the world celebrate. During it, the practices include abstinence, going without food or water, negative thoughts or treatment of others, including abstaining from abusive language or anything else that will sully defy the spiritual practices during that time.

In other words, Ramadan is the month of willpower, reflection, giving to others and fasting from sunrise to sunset. In some customs around the world, Iftaar is shared with friends, family and the community. While other customs demand that the main meal (the one that follows the iftaar snack) can be shared only with close family.

While all Muslims partake in Iftaar, every country has different ways to do it. India’s different regions buzz with activity and economic growth is seen during Ramadan. Iftaar snacks and rations are often served free in mosques. Family and friends will break their fast together. Iftaar foods are also available at street markets where folks shop till late.

In Iran, for instance, festive-style meals with others are not a custom. Instead, families have their Iftaar meal and their main meal in their homes.

In Pakistan, everyone celebrates just before breaking their fast and then commencing evening prayers.

Like India, Malaysia also has Iftaar street food available before the evening prayers.

With Ramadan comes a special prayer reserved only for this time; it goes in coordination with Iftaar practice in Muslim communities.

For example, you will find family and friends eating with each other, gathered around a table and getting ready for a large dinner.

There is a lot of preparation and work that goes into Ramadan. After the sun has set, the food is already prepared in advance, which allows for sufficient food even if more family and friends come over to eat.

Most importantly, during this time, many Muslims share food with strangers and non-Muslims. This is one of the most common charity practices that is often rewarding, and it ensures that everyone has something to ea

IFTAAR RECIPE SUGGESTIONS

Families are very creative regarding iftaar snacks and the meals that follow. Iftaar, although a lighter meal, provides energy, protein and sustenance after the 15hour fast.

Some communities serve samosas (triangle crisp fried pastry with vegetable or meat filling). Beverages like soybean milk are often served, too. There are also fruit like dates and a drink of water or other fruit beverages. While it isn’t heavy, it is a good way to ease your way back into eating without shocking your body.

IFTAAR SNACKS TO MAKE AT HOME

CLOSING THOUGHTS Iftaar is an integral part of Ramadan that also encourages closeness between communities, families and friends. We hope you enjoy making one of these simple and quick recipes.

DATE TRUFFLE

Dates are common in the Middle East and South Asia and have been cultivated for millennia. It is a great source of energy (having healthier natural sugar) and are rich in antioxidants. Best of all, dates are vegetarian and vegan-friendly, and undoubtedly an ideal Iftaar snack to break the fast.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups of pitted dates • 1 cup desiccated coconut • 1 cup of roasted almonds • 1 tablespoon of honey

METHOD

1. In a blender or food processor add all the ingredients (other than coconut) and blend it into a paste. 2. Next, roll the paste into balls and coat it with the coconut. Serve with water or other Iftaar snacks, or have it as is.

DRY FRUIT MILKSHAKE

Dried fruit is a rich source of energy and this fruit milkshake also gives you protein and calcium.

INGREDIENTS

• Almonds • Pitted dates • Figs • Raisins • Chilled milk (you may use a yogurt)

METHOD

1. Blend everything together. 2. serve chilled