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Ramadan, also known as Ramzan, is a holy month in the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide. It is a time of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth, during which Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from sunrise to sunset. The month of Ramadan is considered to be a time for forgiveness, self-discipline, and charity.
During Ramadan, the traditional pre-dawn meal is called Suhoor, and the meal at sunset is called Iftar. Muslims worldwide gather with family and friends to break their fast during Iftar, a grand feast. The dishes served during Iftar vary according to the region, but there are some common dishes found in many countries.
One of the most popular dishes during Ramadan is dates, which are rich in nutrients and energy. Muslims break their fast by eating dates, followed by a glass of water or milk. Other popular dishes during Iftar include samosas, pakoras, haleem, and biryani. Haleem, a slow-cooked meat and lentil stew, is a must-have dish during Ramzan, especially in South Asia. Biryani, a flavourful rice dish, is also a popular choice during Iftar, and it is served with various meat or vegetable curries.
In addition to the traditional dishes, many countries have their own specialities during Ramzan. For example, in Egypt, it is customary to eat Fattah, a dish made with bread, rice, and meat. In Turkey, Pide, a flatbread with various toppings, is a common dish during Ramzan.
Here are the top 10 dishes that are typically enjoyed during the Ramzan festival:
Haleem
Haleem is a popular dish that is typically consumed during the month of Ramadan. It is a slow-cooked dish that is made with wheat, meat (usually beef or lamb), and lentils. The dish is usually garnished with fried onions and coriander leaves, and it is often served with lemon wedges.
Biryani
Biryani is a traditional South Asian dish that is enjoyed all year, but especially during the Ramzan festival. It is a flavourful rice dish that is made with spices, meat (usually chicken or beef), and vegetables. It is often served with raita, a yoghurt-based dip that helps to cool down the spicy biryani.
Samosas
Samosas are a popular snack that is enjoyed throughout the year, but they are particularly popular during the month of Ramzan. They are triangular pastries that are filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. They are usually deep-fried until crispy and served with chutney.
Pakoras
Pakoras are another popular snack that is enjoyed during the Ramzan festival. They are made by dipping chicken or vegetables, such as onions, potatoes, and cauliflower, into a spiced batter and then deep-frying them until crispy. They are usually served with chutney.
Dates
Dates are an essential part of the Ramzan festival. They are typically eaten to break the fast as they are a quick and easy source of energy. They are also a traditional food that is believed to have been eaten by the Prophet Muhammad.
Rooh Afza
Rooh Afza is a popular drink that is enjoyed during the Ramzan festival. It is a sweet, rose-flavoured syrup that is mixed with water to make a refreshing drink. It is often served with ice and lemon wedges.
Sheer Khurma
Sheer Khurma is a sweet, creamy dessert that is typically eaten to break the fast during the Ramzan festival. It is made with vermicelli noodles, milk, sugar, and nuts, and it is often flavoured with cardamom and rose water.
Fruit Chaat
Fruit chaat is a refreshing salad that is typically served during the Ramzan festival. It is made with a variety of fruits, such as mangoes, apples, and bananas, and it is usually seasoned with chaat masala, a spicy and tangy seasoning.
Chicken Korma
Chicken korma is a mild, creamy curry that is typically served during the Ramzan festival. It is made with chicken, yoghurt, and a variety of spices, and it is often garnished with nuts and coriander leaves.
Nihari
Nihari is a slow-cooked meat dish that is typically consumed during the Ramzan festival. It's made with beef or lamb and cooked for hours with a variety of spices to make a flavourful gravy. It is usually served with naan or roti.
In conclusion, Ramzan is a holy month for Muslims worldwide, and it is a time of self-reflection, spiritual growth, and charity. Iftar, the evening meal, is a grand feast where Muslims gather with family and friends to break their fast. Traditional dishes like dates, samosas, pakoras, haleem, and biryani are a must-have during iftar, and each country has its own specialities during Ramadan.
