What to eat during Ramadan

In Islam, Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim Calendar commemorating the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. This holy month is marked by a period of fasting, prayer, community, and celebration by Muslims worldwide. Muslims typically fast from dawn to sunset during this period, abstaining from all food and drink. People for whom fasting would be a hardship, however, like pregnant women and those who are ill, are exempt from fasting. Muslims will commonly have a meal just before dawn called Suhoor and share an evening meal after sunset called Iftar.

At sunset, those observing Ramadan may break their fast with a small snack like fruit and water. Dates, like these hand-selected, exceptionally plump Medjool Dates with Stones, are a popular choice. Why not take this simple treat up a notch with our stuffed dates recipe, filled with wholesome seeded nut butter or velvety smooth hazelnut crème, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt? A handful of nuts, like our Natural King Walnut Halves or this Collection Midnight Beauty Raisins and Cashews mix, provides a great boost of protein. For a light treat, these sun-ripened figs or our succulent dried apricots will do the trick.

Eid al-Fitr is a day of celebration and community with family and friends. Kick off the festivities with a bowl of luxury loaded houmous and sharing dishes like crispy veggie pakoras and tender lamb paratha. A batch of smothered hot honey chicken wings or juicy chipotle chicken thighs are real crowd-pleasers, especially paired with a za’atar-roasted cauliflower, kale and chickpea salad or roasted carrots with garlic tahini yogurt and pistachio dukkah. Double up this chicken pilaf recipe to feed a crowd, or try this bejewelled rice for a celebratory side. Guests will love digging into these spiced meatballs, seasoned with a sprinkle of ras el hanout and paired with a cooling labneh and a crunchy, brightening slaw. Finish your feast with a decadent dessert, like this rich and creamy pistachio cheesecake or these elegant white chocolate tiramisu pots topped with succulent raspberries.