Ramadan is the holy month of Muslims that begins with the viewing of the crescent moon and is regarded as one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims across the globe observe a 29–30 day fast before celebrating Eid Al Fitr for three days at the conclusion of the month. The practice of fasting is universal throughout the world. The pre-dawn meal before the fast is called Suhur and the meal at sunset that breaks the fast is called Iftar.
Due to the fact that people fast throughout the entire month of Ramadan, the meals are regarded as nutritious and healthy. Dates, fruits, fried snacks, dairy products, desserts, bread, water, juices, sherbet, and other items are the main ingredients of iftar food. Following Asr prayer, people visit a variety of eateries and food stores to purchase bread and snacks for the iftar. The iftar table is set up with both homemade and market-brought food at home. Iftar trays are intended for sharing with neighbors and friends, whereas iftar boxes are intended for giving to the less fortunate. Small children eagerly anticipate and observe the iftar food set out on the table. It’s a time when everyone gathers to enjoy the iftar while dining together.
The world is one, but it is geographically divided into regions with various cultures and cuisines. There are many different types of food in each country, some of which are served as traditional iconic foods, such as in:
Saudi Arabia : ZamZam water/ Dates / Soups / Sambusa / Salads/ Foul with Tamees bread /Al-Shreik bread / Yoghurt mixed with duqqa powder/ Beef Machboos/ Sobia drink / Vimto drink / Laban , Morocco : Harira , Singapore : Kue lapis which is a layered steamed cake, Jordan : Mansaf, Turkey : Pidesi flatbread, India : Pakoras / Samosas/ Nukti khare/ Papad/ Haleem, UAE : Harees / Thareed, Egypt : Qatayef , Somalia : Nafaqo , Nigeria : Moi Moi, Spain : Gambas Al Ajillo , Armenia : Dolma, Philippines : Arroz Caldo, Africa : Jollof rice , Bangladesh : Seekh Kebabs / Shahi Jilapi, Malaysia : Ayam masak merah / Nasi Lemak, Pakistan : Fruit Chaat / Kebabs, Brunei Darussalam : Boiled crab, Indonesia : Kolak, Iran : Fesenjan / Koofteh, Sudan : Taameya known as falafel / Sudanese Asida , Japan : A healthy broth containing udon noodles, napa cabbage, negi, tofu, thinly sliced beef and another dish is Chicken katsu curry , Palestine : Shorbat Adas .
Furthermore, many cultures enjoy their post-iftar cups of tea or coffee. Saudi Arabian coffee is a popular beverage in Saudi Arabia.
I had the chance to interview Chef Issam Rhachi about Ramadan food, and he shared his opinions as well as some simple iftar recipes.
Moroccan Chef Issam Rhachi (Instagram A/c: issamrhachi ) made an instant decision to pursue a career in cooking. His career and life have been filled with success. He started his cooking adventure with the luxury Meridien hotel chain as Demi Chef de partie. In 2012, Chef Issam Rhachi made it to the top 10 Best Chefs in Morocco, Bocuse d’Or Morocco. He won the 1st prize of revisited Moroccan cuisine in Crémai. During his career, he took part in different cuisine exchanges in France. He received a gold medal with Team Morocco in Dubai Hospitality World Cup and he continued to prove his professionalism while participating in international festivals. In 2017, he earned the title of ‘Grand Chef de Demain’ awarded to him by the international guide Gault-Millau, he got a silver medal in Trophée Passion in Paris.
Ramadan food is renowned for its incredible variety and flavor, which we enjoy during this month, and Chef Issam claims that the Ftour table is famous for its array of unique and savory dishes made specifically for this holy month. Ramadan food must be balanced because it goes beyond simply preparing traditional dishes. Consuming nutrient-rich food is also essential.
Ramadan Mubarak To all of you.
By: Rida Khan (Aviation Author)
Instagram A/c: aviationauthor.ridakhan
