Delicious Ramadan Recipes to Nourish Your Body and Soul

Ramadan is a time of reflection, spirituality, and community, but it’s also a time when families come together to share meals before dawn (Suhoor) and after sunset (Iftar). The foods enjoyed during this sacred month vary across cultures, but the goal remains the same: to nourish the body with wholesome, balanced meals that provide energy and hydration for fasting hours.

Whether you’re looking for traditional favourites or modern twists, here’s a selection of delicious Ramadan recipes to inspire your Iftar and Suhoor tables.

Suhoor Recipes: Energising Meals to Start Your Fast

Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, is essential for sustaining energy throughout the day. The focus should be on high-fibre, protein-rich foods and hydration.

1. Oats and Date Porridge

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 cups almond milk (or regular milk)
• 4 pitted dates, chopped
• 1 tbsp honey
• A pinch of cinnamon
• Sliced almonds for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine oats and milk.
2. Add chopped dates and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir until the oats are soft and creamy.
4. Add honey and cinnamon.
5. Serve warm, topped with sliced almonds.

Why it’s great for Suhoor: High in fibre and natural sugars, this porridge provides slow-releasing energy to keep you full longer.

2. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Omelette

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk the eggs in a bowl, adding salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan.
3. Add spinach and sauté until wilted.
4. Pour in the eggs and cook until slightly firm.
5. Add feta cheese, fold the omelette, and cook for another minute.
6. Serve warm with whole-grain bread.

Why it’s great for Suhoor: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and iron, this omelette keeps you satisfied and energised.

Iftar Recipes: Nourishing Dishes to Break Your Fast

Iftar traditionally begins with dates and water, followed by a balanced meal to replenish nutrients. Focus on hydrating foods, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates.

3. Lentil Soup (Shorbat Adas)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion, garlic, and carrots in olive oil until soft.
2. Add lentils, broth, and spices.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
4. Blend with an immersion blender for a smooth texture (optional).
5. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Why it’s perfect for Iftar: Light, comforting, and packed with protein and fibre to restore energy.

4. Chicken Kebabs with Yoghurt Sauce

Ingredients:

• 500g boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Yoghurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yoghurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Chopped fresh mint

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
2. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers and grill until fully cooked.
4. Mix yoghurt sauce ingredients and serve with kebabs.

Why it’s perfect for Iftar: A protein-rich dish that’s light, flavourful, and easy to digest after fasting.

5. Fattoush Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 red capsicum, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 2 toasted pita breads, broken into pieces

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all vegetables and toasted pita in a large bowl.
2. Whisk together the dressing ingredients.
3. Pour over the salad and toss well before serving.

Why it’s perfect for Iftar: Refreshing, hydrating, and rich in vitamins—perfect after a long fast.

Sweet Treats for Ramadan

6. Date and Nut Energy Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1/2 cup almonds
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
• Desiccated coconut for rolling

Instructions:

1. Blend dates and nuts in a food processor until sticky.
2. Add cocoa powder and honey, blending until smooth.
3. Roll into small balls and coat with coconut.
4. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Why it’s great for Ramadan: Naturally sweet, packed with fibre and healthy fats for an energy boost.

Tips for Healthy Eating During Ramadan

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor.
• Balance Your Meals: Combine complex carbs, lean protein, healthy fats, and fibre.
• Avoid Overeating: Break your fast with light foods to prevent discomfort.
• Limit Sugary and Fried Foods: Enjoy traditional sweets in moderation.

Support ARO This Ramadan

As we gather around our Iftar tables, let’s remember those who don’t have enough to eat. At ARO, we are committed to fighting hunger through food distribution programs for vulnerable communities.

Help us make a difference. Donate Now to provide Iftar meals and support families in need this Ramadan.

Your generosity can bring nourishment and hope to those who need it most.

Related Project: Hunger Relief