Bayfood Fasts – Ramadan Recipes

Ramadan is one of my favorite times of the year – seems a bit ironic since a big part of it is about not eating. Though fasting is done to remind us what it’s like to not be able to have food and water like others who are less fortunate, it’s also about the spiritual cleanse as well. While I cannot fast since I take medications (which of course requires water and food), I still participate in other ways. I also really enjoy it since it’s that time of day that everyone in my house makes sure we’re home for iftar (opening fast) and dinner. There’s also a lot of socializing that happens, with people hosting iftars at their homes, or community centers and mosques that host them.

Though most of the day is without food, it is fun to switch up what we open fasts with. My family likes to switch it up, so we often have an eclectic mix of dishes. Here are some of my favorite dishes (and drinks!) to open your fast with and recipes I’ve compiled over the last few years:

SAVORY

• Afghan Potato Salad
• Biryani
• Grilled Eggplant with Onions. Yogurt, & Lemon
• Lentil Carrot Salad
• Pakoras (fried fritters)
• Puri Chana (Chickpea) Tacos
• Samosas

SWEET

• Ras Malai Cupcakes

DRINKS

• Sparkling Mint Lemonade
• Gulabi-Ginger Fizz

Ramadan Kareem!