Ramadan is the most cherished month of the year for Muslims, filled with blessings, heartfelt gatherings, and joyous celebrations. It’s also a time to indulge in the flavours of suhoor and iftar—those beloved meals that mark the beginning and end of the fast.
Ramadan’s timing shifts every year, as it follows the lunar-based Islamic calendar, with some communities marking the start a day earlier or later due to varying interpretations. At its heart, Ramadan revolves around the five pillars of Islam. During this sacred month, Muslims who can commit to fasting from dawn until sunset—abstaining from food and water—not only as a demonstration of spiritual discipline and devotion to the almighty but also as a reminder to show compassion and support for those in need.
The fasting month culminates in the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a day filled with gifts, gatherings, and festive feasts. Though Islam began in Saudi Arabia, the religion’s global spread means that each country has its own culinary traditions.
Across the globe, each country has its signature dishes that grace the iftar or suhoor table.
Let’s embark on a delicious journey with iconic Ramadan foods from around the world!
Ayam Masak Merah, Malaysia
Malaysia’s cuisine is a delightful dance of bold spices and flavours, but have you encountered ayam masak merah? This stunning chicken dish is slow-cooked in a fragrant, mildly spicy sauce that’s pure comfort on a plate. The secret? A rich sambal made from chillies, lemongrass, shallots, garlic, and ginger, gives the dish a subtle kick that pairs perfectly with ghee rice (nasi minyak).
Bamia, Lebanon
Okra: you either love it or you... well, really don’t. Lebanese bamia will make you a convert. This dish combines okra, tender meat, and a tangy tomato sauce, infused with spices and a touch of pomegranate molasses for that perfect balance of savoury and sweet. Even the most die-hard okra sceptics will find themselves reaching for another spoonful.
Chebab, United Arab Emirates
Modern luxury meets rich tradition in the UAE. Chebab is a favourite during Ramadan, served as the perfect start to Suhoor, setting the tone for a day of fasting. These fluffy pancakes, infused with saffron and cardamom, are served with date syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness.
Chorba Frik, Algeria
Craving something hearty and flavourful? Chorba frik from Algeria is a game-changer. This comforting stew combines tomatoes, chickpeas, vegetables, and freekeh—an ancient grain—with tender lamb, creating a rich, savoury dish.
Doro Wat, Ethiopia
Ethiopia’s Doro Wat deserves all the love it gets. This spicy chicken stew, with its thick, buttery sauce and fiery berbere spice blend, is a flavourful masterpiece. Tender chicken and hard-boiled eggs simmer in a sauce so rich, it practically melts in your mouth. Served with injera, a tangy fermented flatbread, it’s a dish that will have you reaching for more long after you’ve finished your meal.
Haleem, Pakistan
Slow-cooked to creamy perfection, haleem is a traditional Pakistani dish that’s as affluent in flavour as it is in history. Made from a mix of meat, lentils, barley, nuts, and spices, it’s a hearty, velvety stew that’s a true comfort food. With its roots in Iran, this dish has been adapted and adored across South Asia, especially during Ramadan, where it’s topped with crispy onions, fresh cilantro, and ginger. It’s a dish that warms both the body and the soul.
Harira, Morocco
No Moroccan Iftar is complete without a steaming bowl of harira. This rich, velvety soup is a symphony of chickpeas, lentils, tomatoes, fresh herbs, and warm spices like ginger and cinnamon. While many recipes include lamb or beef, the plant-based versions are just as beloved and also typically served with crusty bread for dipping.
Khaliat al Nahl, Yemen
Fans of sweet, fluffy bread can get their hands on khaliat al nahl. These pillowy honeycomb-shaped buns are filled with sweet cream cheese, topped with sesame and nigella seeds, and brushed with floral honey. Perfectly paired with a cup of rich Yemeni coffee, they’re ideal for sharing and so delicious you’ll have a hard time stopping at just one.
Knafeh, Palestine
The sweet aroma of knafeh is enough to make your mouth water. This beloved Middle Eastern dessert, with roots in Palestine (though its origins are debated), is a showstopper. Layers of mozzarella cheese are topped with crispy kataïfi (shredded phyllo dough), baked until golden, and then drenched in fragrant rose and orange blossom syrup. Finished off with crushed pistachios, this dessert is pure indulgence, sweet enough to steal the spotlight at any gathering.
Ma’arouk, Syria
Ma’arouk is the type of bread you wait all year to enjoy. This sweet, brioche-like treat is filled with date paste and mixed nuts, then baked until golden and brushed with citrusy sugar syrup. Served it with cheese, jam, and hot tea for an irresistible meal.
M'battan, Libya
Potato lovers, brace yourselves. Libya’s m'battan takes the humble potato to the next level! Slices of crispy, golden potatoes are stuffed with garlicky minced meat, creating a savoury snack that’s impossible to resist. A little tricky to make? Supposedly. But once you bite into these crispy bites of heaven, all the effort will feel more than worth it.
Qatayef, Egypt
The sight of qatayef in the shops means one thing: Ramadan is here! These delectable stuffed pancakes are a true celebration of the season. Think of them as little pockets of joy filled with creamy ashta (clotted cream), nuts, or even sweet cheese, then fried to golden perfection and drenched in honey or syrup.
Ramazan Pidesi, Turkey
Ever wonder how the Ottomans did it? Imagine bakeries designed for every need—military, public, and even charity. Fast forward to today, and the streets of Istanbul are still lined with bakeries during Ramadan, each one serving freshly baked Ramazan pidesi. This fluffy, sesame-topped bread is as much a part of Ramadan as family gatherings. Whether paired with Turkish coffee and cheese for Suhoor or enjoyed with hearty çılbır (Turkish eggs) for Iftar, it’s a heavenly experience in every bite.
Samosa, India
No Ramadan celebration is complete without a tray of crispy, golden samosas. These deep-fried pastries are filled with spiced potatoes and peas, offering the perfect crunch. Have it served with tangy chutney, raita, or paired with curry, samosas are the ultimate snack that never fails to delight.
Shorbat Adas, Jordan
Look no further than shorbat adas, a comforting red lentil soup from Jordan. This deceptively simple dish packs a punch with earthy spices, and the addition of a squeeze of fresh lemon elevates it to new heights. It’s the perfect way to break your fast without feeling overly stuffed—and a vegetarian delight!