By For many of us, iftar is incomplete without a fried snack. From hot pakoras, tasty sambusas, spring rolls, samosas, qatayef, murtabak, jilapi (just to name a few) fried foods are hands down the most popular foods for iftar.
Making them can be such a communal experience, by managing ingredient preparing, folding pastry, and frying. With so many diverse varieties of fried savories across the Muslim diaspora, it’s safe to say that fried foods are a quintessential part of the Ramadan experience.
Hearing the sizzle of hot oil, and the crunch of the flaky pastry is a classic Ramadan experience, and these savories are enjoyed by millions all over the world. From debates over potato or beef samosas, what to put in the qatayef, and who keeps eating all the sambusas, the love between iftar tables and fried foods runs deep. Fried foods are often served during iftar as they provide a satisfying and filling meal, and are also a traditional part of the cuisine in many Muslim cultures. Fried foods such as samosas, pakoras, and falafel are popular during Ramadan and are often served alongside other healthier dishes such as dates, fruit, proteins, and soup.
After a long day of not eating, the body craves salt, and the savory taste of fried foods makes them even more popular.
Fried foods are a popular choice during Ramadan for a few reasons. First, they are often easy to prepare and can be made in large quantities to feed many people. Second, they are high in calories and provide a quick source of energy after a long day of fasting. After a long day of not eating, the body craves salt, and the savory taste of fried foods makes them even more popular. Fried foods are often considered a special treat or indulgence, making them a popular choice for celebratory occasions like Ramadan.
While fried foods are certainly a staple of Ramadan cuisine, it’s important to remember that they should be consumed in moderation. Many fried foods are high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, which can lead to health problems if consumed in excess. To make healthier choices during Ramadan, it’s important to balance fried foods with a variety of other dishes such as grilled meats, salads, and vegetables. Additionally, choosing healthier cooking methods such as baking or grilling can help reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories in your meals. Try baking samosas instead, or use an air fryer to cut down the excess oil. But, if you find yourself frying up some crispy samosas or jilapi, don’t worry, just save some for us!
Wishing all of you a happy, spiritual, and blessed Ramadan filled with all the fried treats your heart desires!