Ramadan, the sacred month of fasting and prayers, occurs during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Observers of Ramadan are required to abstain from certain activities and fast from sunrise to sunset. Ramadan has been observed for centuries, and people have managed to develop a whole series of nutritional dense fare to keep the body healthy during this time of the year. Below are some great recipes to enjoy this Ramadan. They are not only delicious, but they’re also nutritious –
1. Fattoush Salad
The fattoush salad is great for two specific reasons, it is nutritionally dense and it is hydrating. Its nutritional content is what really makes this salad worthwhile Ramadan food. It has lots of healthy fats and proteins which your body absolutely needs when you’re fasting. It also contains lots of nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin D.
2. Ful Medammes
This is a great dish to eat in the morning. It is a wonderfully delicious suhoor dish that is composed of mashed fava beans, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and tahini. It has a consistency similar to hummus and is a great dip for warm pita bread, radishes, or carrot sticks. It’s a great way to share a meal with the family as you can pass it around the table. Just store this in an insulated storage containers, and it remains fresh for an entire day!
3. Morrocan Chorba
This soup makes for great comfort food as it’s very satiating and filling. It’s made with nutrient-rich potatoes, chickpeas, and stewed meat. It has an entire complement of spices that make it mouthwatering delicious, such as, saffron, ginger, and turmeric. You can turn this into a type of noodle soup if you replace the chickpeas with vermicelli noodles. The vermicelli also doesn’t have to soak overnight like chickpeas do.
4. Pakora Fritters
Sometimes, you might not be craving a large meal, and want to snack on something instead. Try making some pakoras using paneer, potatoes, or cauliflowers. You will feel satiated without having to consume too much.
It is important to break your Ramadan fast with a wholesome meal that is well balanced and nutritious too! Make sure you include hydrating foods like fresh fruits and salads, fibrous whole grains and high-carb foods like rice and bread too.