Middle Eastern Ramadan Recipes: A Culinary Journey through the Holy Month

Ramadan is a significant time for the Muslim community, and its observance involves fasting from sunrise to sunset for 30 days. The holy month of Ramadan is not just about abstinence from food and water, but also about self-discipline, empathy, and spiritual reflection. As the sun sets, the community comes together to break the fast with iftar, a meal that symbolizes unity, sharing, and generosity.

Middle Eastern cuisine has a rich tradition of dishes that are enjoyed during Ramadan. These dishes are often a reflection of the country’s culture, traditions, and history. From savory appetizers to sweet desserts, Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and aromatic spices. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey through the Middle East and explore some of the traditional recipes that are popular during Ramadan.

1. Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a classic Middle Eastern dish that is perfect for a hearty iftar meal. It is made by simmering eggs in a flavorful tomato sauce that is spiced with cumin, paprika, and chili powder. The dish is traditionally served with warm pita bread, and it is a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper and stir to combine.
4. Pour the diced tomatoes into the skillet and stir well.
5. Let the tomato mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until it has thickened slightly.
6. Use a spoon to make four wells in the tomato mixture, making sure there is space between each well.
7. Crack an egg into each well, being careful not to break the yolk.
8. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the eggs cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny, about 5-7 minutes.
9. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the top of the shakshuka.
10. Serve hot, with crusty bread or pita for dipping into the tomato sauce and egg yolks.

Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make Shakshuka recipe that is perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner!

2. Kofta

Middle Eastern Ramadan Recipes, Kofta is a popular meat dish that is often served during Ramadan. It is made by mixing ground meat with spices, onions, and herbs, and then shaping the mixture into small balls or cylinders. The kofta is then grilled, baked, or fried until it is cooked through. It can be served on its own or with rice, bread, or a side salad.

Ingredients:

For the kofta:

• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the yogurt sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, parsley, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Divide the meat mixture into 12-14 portions and shape each portion into a small sausage shape.
4. Thread each sausage-shaped kofta onto a skewer.
5. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
6. Grill the kofta skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are fully cooked and browned on all sides.
7. While the kofta are cooking, prepare the yogurt sauce by whisking together the yogurt, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint leaves, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve the kofta skewers hot with the yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful kofta, perfect for any meal or occasion!

3. Fattoush Salad

Middle Eastern Ramadan Recipes, Fattoush salad is a refreshing salad that is perfect for breaking the fast. It is made with a mix of fresh vegetables, including cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce, and it is topped with crunchy pieces of toasted pita bread. The salad is dressed with a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing, and it is often flavored with sumac, a sour spice that is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Ingredients:

For the salad:

• 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 large cucumber, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sumac
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced

For the pita chips:

• 2 pita breads, split open and cut into small triangles
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, green bell pepper, parsley, and mint leaves.
3. To make the dressing, in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Place the pita triangles on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Add the baked pita chips to the salad and toss gently.
8. Serve the Fattoush salad immediately.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Fattoush salad, perfect for any occasion!

4. Lentil Soup

Middle Eastern Ramadan Recipes, Lentil soup is a comforting and nourishing soup that is often served during Ramadan. It is made with lentils, onions, garlic, and spices, and it is often garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. The soup can be served hot or cold, and it is perfect for breaking the fast on a cold evening.

5. Maamoul

Middle Eastern Ramadan Recipes, Maamoul is a sweet pastry that is often served during Ramadan. It is made by filling a cookie-like dough with a mixture of dates, nuts, or sweet cheese. The pastry is then shaped into small balls or cylinders and baked until it is golden brown. Maamoul is often served with a cup of Arabic coffee, and it is a favorite among children and adults alike.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups semolina flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup rose water
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For the filling:

• 2 cups chopped dates
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the semolina flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Add the melted butter and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the rose water and milk, mixing well until a soft dough forms. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 1-2 hours.
4. In the meantime, prepare the filling. In a saucepan, combine the chopped dates, butter, and ground cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the dates are soft. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
6. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 1/2 tablespoons each. Flatten each ball with your fingers and create a small well in the center.
7. Add a small amount of the date filling to the center of each flattened dough ball, then close the dough around the filling, shaping it into a small ball.
8. Press each ball into a maamoul mold or press down with a fork to create a decorative pattern on top.
9. Place the maamoul on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
10. Let the maamoul cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your homemade maamoul!

6. Baklava

Middle Eastern Ramadan Recipes, Baklava is a classic Middle Eastern dessert that is perfect for ending a meal during Ramadan. It is made by layering thin sheets of phyllo dough with a mixture of nuts and spices, and then drizzling the pastry with a sweet syrup. The dessert is crunchy, sweet, and aromatic, and it is often served with a cup of mint tea.

Ingredients

7. Kunafa