17 dishes you might see at an 'Iftar' buffet during Ramadan
The 9th month of the Islamic calendar is called Ramadan – a 30-day period of fasting and deep reflection for Muslims all over the world. As part of Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating food from sunrise until sunset to instead devote themselves to prayer.
Mar 23, 2025, 21:10 IST
Before dawn, those who observe Ramadan rise and eat a light breakfast called ‘Suhur’ (or ‘Suhoor’) to carry them through their day of fasting. At sunset, they break their fast with ‘Iftar’, starting with fresh dates and then moving onto a feast of traditional foods.
Iftar is often a communal affair, where observers bring a plate and share food. Buffet dishes might include salads, halal meats, rice and sweet pastries.
During Ramadan, Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. An Iftar buffet is often a lavish spread featuring a mix of traditional and modern dishes. Here are 17 dishes you might commonly find at an Iftar buffet:
Appetizers & Small Bites
1. Dates & Dried Fruits – The traditional way to break the fast.
2. Samosas – Crispy pastries filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or lentils.
3. Pakoras – Deep-fried fritters made from chickpea flour and vegetables.
4. Spring Rolls – Stuffed with vegetables or meat and served with sauces.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma) – Rice and herb-filled grape leaves.
Soups & Salads
6. Lentil Soup – A comforting and nutritious soup, popular in Middle Eastern cuisine.
7. Harira – A Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and spices.
8. Fattoush – A fresh salad with crispy pita chips, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
9. Tabbouleh – A light and refreshing parsley and bulgur salad.
Main Dishes
10. Biryani – A fragrant rice dish with spiced meat or vegetables.
11. Grilled Meat & Kebab – Chicken, lamb, or beef skewers cooked with spices.
12. Mandi or Kabsa – Arabian spiced rice dishes with slow-cooked meat.
13. Butter Chicken or Chicken Curry – Rich, flavorful dishes served with rice or bread.
Breads & Sides
14. Pita Bread & Hummus – Soft pita bread paired with creamy hummus.
15. Mutabbal or Baba Ganoush – Smoky eggplant dip, perfect for dipping.
Desserts & Drinks
16. Kunafa – A crispy, sweet pastry soaked in syrup and filled with cheese or cream.
17. Jallab or Rooh Afza – Traditional sweet drinks made with rose syrup, dates, or grape molasses.