As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, families come together to break their fast and indulge in a hearty meal. Iftar, the meal that breaks the daily Ramadan fast, is a time for celebration and feasting with loved ones. In this article, we will explore 20 mouth-watering iftar recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic dishes like Chicken Biryani with Saffron and Fried Onions, to innovative twists like Falafel with Tahini Sauce and Pita Bread, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, our collection of recipes caters to all tastes. We’ve got Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Mint Sauce, Vegetable Samosas with Tamarind Chutney, and even sweet treats like Sweet Vermicelli Pudding with Cardamom. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large iftar party, these recipes are sure to make your meal memorable.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the flavors of Ramadan. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the diverse and delicious recipes that make iftar so special.
Chicken Biryani with Saffron and Fried Onions
This aromatic Indian-inspired dish combines flavorful chicken, saffron-infused rice, and crispy fried onions for a truly unforgettable meal. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp hot water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions with saffron-infused water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet and cook chicken until browned. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, fry onion rings until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a large saucepan, combine cooked rice, chicken, cumin, coriander, and salt. Mix well.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Garnish with fried onions and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Mint Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or weeknight meals with these succulent lamb kebabs, perfectly balanced by a cooling yogurt mint sauce. This flavorful and refreshing combination is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Add lamb cubes; toss to coat.
3. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, mint leaves, and lemon juice in a bowl.
6. Serve lamb kebabs with yogurt mint sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Samosas with Tamarind Chutney
Samosas are a popular Indian snack that can be enjoyed at any time of day. These crispy fried or baked pastries filled with spiced vegetables and served with a tangy tamarind chutney make for a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
For the samosas:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the filling:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed potatoes
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt to taste
For the tamarind chutney:
– 1/2 cup tamarind paste
– 1/4 cup date syrup
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Make the filling by combining all ingredients.
2. Roll out the dough and cut into squares.
3. Place a spoonful of filling in the center and fold to form a triangle.
4. Seal edges with water and press to seal.
5. Fry or bake samosas until golden brown.
6. To make tamarind chutney, combine all ingredients and adjust sweetness to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (frying) or 15-18 minutes (baking)
Beef Kofta Curry with Basmati Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Indian cuisine with this hearty beef kofta curry, served over fluffy basmati rice. Aromatic spices and tender meat come together in a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef mince
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup basmati rice
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Mix beef mince with onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala. Shape into small koftas.
3. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry koftas until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
4. In the same pan, cook curry sauce by sautéing onions, then adding diced tomatoes, salt, and koftas.
5. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve kofta curry over hot basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil Soup with Lemon and Cumin
This bright and flavorful lentil soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch on-the-go. The addition of lemon juice and cumin adds a depth of citrusy flavor that complements the hearty lentils perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, cumin, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and mix well.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and top each pepper with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Falafel with Tahini Sauce and Pita Bread
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this classic combination: crispy, flavorful falafel served with a rich and creamy tahini sauce and warm pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpeas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tahini sauce (see below)
– Pita bread
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, garlic, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, baking powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties.
4. Fry the falafel for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Warm pita bread by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Serve falafel with tahini sauce and pita bread.
Tahini Sauce:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Fatayer
Fatayers are a popular Middle Eastern pastry that can be filled with various ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe for Spinach and Cheese Fatayer, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Filling:
+ 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
+ 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
+ 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions, depending on desired size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place a spoonful of spinach and cheese filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with vegetable oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Fish with Garlic Lemon Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or dark meat), such as tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and butter until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the fish fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the garlic-lemon butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chickpea and Potato Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of creamy chickpeas, tender potatoes, and aromatic spices. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chickpeas, diced potatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Date and Nut Energy Balls
These no-bake energy balls are packed with nutritious dates, nuts, and oats, making them a perfect snack for busy days. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine dates, oats, and almonds. Blend until well combined.
2. Add honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and sticky.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy balls are ready in just a few minutes.
Roasted Eggplant with Tahini Drizzle
Roasted Eggplant with Tahini Drizzle: A flavorful and nutritious side dish or main course that combines the natural sweetness of eggplant with the creamy richness of tahini sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon water
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
6. Meanwhile, combine tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and water in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
7. Remove eggplant from the oven and drizzle with tahini sauce.
8. Garnish with chopped herbs, if desired.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic
Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of lamb with the brightness of rosemary and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops, 1-1.5 inches thick
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the lamb chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the lamb chops to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary and minced garlic evenly over the lamb chops.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let the lamb rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Sauce
Savor the flavors of the Middle East with these juicy chicken shawarma wraps smothered in a rich garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Garlic sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and tahini sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble wraps with grilled chicken, garlic sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and tahini sauce (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Grape Leaves with Rice and Herbs
These flavorful dolmas are a classic Mediterranean dish, filled with a fragrant mixture of rice, herbs, and spices wrapped in tender grape leaves. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 20-24 grape leaves
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse grape leaves and remove stems.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, dill, scallions, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining grape leaves and filling.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook stuffed grape leaves for 10-15 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Noodles
This recipe is a perfect blend of savory beef, colorful vegetables, and chewy noodles, all stir-fried to perfection. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 1 cup cooked noodles (chow mein or rice noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender-crisp.
5. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir in the minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine the cooked noodles with the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Vermicelli Pudding with Cardamom
This traditional Indian dessert is a comforting treat that combines the sweetness of vermicelli noodles with the warmth of cardamom. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in, this pudding is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweet vermicelli noodles
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and ground cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Add the cooked vermicelli noodles, butter, and salt to the saucepan. Stir until the noodles are well coated with the milk mixture.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Fried Dumplings with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Elevate your dumpling game with this addictive combination of crispy fried wrappers and spicy dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 wonton wrappers
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cut wonton wrappers into desired shapes (e.g., triangles, squares, or strips).
4. Fry dumplings in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together dipping sauce ingredients. Adjust the heat level to your liking.
6. Serve fried dumplings with spicy dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin with the richness of coconut milk, making it a perfect autumnal treat to warm up on a chilly day. With its velvety texture and subtle sweetness, this soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pumpkin and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fruit Salad with Honey and Lime Dressing
This refreshing fruit salad combines a colorful mix of fruits with a sweet and tangy honey and lime dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 1 cup diced mango
– 1/2 cup diced apple
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, pineapple, mango, and apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and lime juice until well combined.
3. Pour the honey-lime dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, no cooking required!
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delectable array of Iftar recipes that will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body. From classic dishes like Chicken Biryani with Saffron and Fried Onions, Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Mint Sauce, and Vegetable Samosas with Tamarind Chutney, to innovative creations such as Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice, Falafel with Tahini Sauce and Pita Bread, and Grilled Fish with Garlic Lemon Butter. These 20 mouth-watering recipes cater to various tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring a hearty meal for you and your loved ones.