Three accomplished chefs take us on a culinary tour around the Middle East, sharing Ramadan food trends and essential menu items.

Iftar treats

Fusion cuisine will continue to be at the forefront, as more dishes blend traditional flavors with international influences, creating unique culinary experiences. For instance, expect Moroccan tagines with Asian-inspired glazes or Indian curries reimagined with Latin American twists, offering exciting flavors.

Plant-based options

Additionally, plant-based options are gaining traction, with a growing emphasis on health and sustainability in the food industry. As a result, plant-based alternatives to traditional meat dishes, such as creative falafel, kebabs and lentil stews, will become more popular.

Healthy and nutritious choices

As health-conscious eating habits grow, lighter and healthier choices will become increasingly prominent on Ramadan menus. Expect more salads, grilled fish and whole-grain options.

Dessert extravaganza

Dessert will remain a major highlight of iftar, offering indulgent treats alongside innovative creations. From classic baklava and kunafa to innovative mousse cakes and fruit tarts, a delightful dessert extravaganza is guaranteed this Ramadan.

Emerging culinary trends 

Every country has its own Ramadan food traditions, often rich in carbohydrates, fats, and sugars. Post Covid-19, with many prioritizing healthier eating, adapting menus to focus on wellness is crucial. For example, swap creamy soups for lighter, nutrient-rich options like lentil, barley, or pearl millet, which is high in protein, fiber, and minerals and works well in porridge or drinks for suhoor. Replace butter and ghee with heart-healthy olive oil, and opt for grilling over frying to create lighter, healthier meals.

Ramadan in KSA

Suhoor begins the fasting day during Ramadan, while iftar marks its end at sunset. Traditionally, Saudi dates and Arab coffee with keshta open the meal, followed by essentials like soup and fried samosas. Iconic dishes include jarash, a creamy crushed wheat stew cooked with broth and meat,and foul with tamees, a fava bean stew paired with freshly baked bread.

Main courses often feature lamb or chicken kabsa, while desserts like kunafa, qatayef and the beloved Saudi hanini — a mix of wheat bread, dates, and ghee—add a sweet touch. The soft drink Vimto remains a Ramadan favorite.

Ramadan menu

The Ramadan menu follows a specific structure, reflecting the rich diversity of culinary traditions across countries. Common staples include soup, salads like fattoush, mixed savory pastries, and an array of cold and hot appetizers. As for main dishes, each country offers iconic classics that embody its Ramadan heritage.

Palestinian favorites like chicken musakhan and arayes bring authentic flavors, while Saudi chicken kabsa is a fragrant and aromatic standout. Lebanese staples such as fish sayadieh, brown rice, kebbeh labanieh and samkeh harra are widely cherished. Jordan’s lamb mansaf, a national treasure, is a popular iftar centerpiece.

In Egypt, iconic dishes like mouloukhia, stuffed pigeon and koshari offer bold, comforting flavors, while Moroccan lamb tagine and couscous highlight hearty, spiced traditions. Yemeni chicken mandi, with its fragrant rice and tender meat, adds depth to any menu. Lastly, Syrian mixed grill, Aleppo-style kebabs and stuffed vegetables (mahachi) showcase the rich and diverse flavors that define a Ramadan feast.

Emerging culinary trends for Ramadan

An increasing number of people are seeking healthier culinary options during Ramadan as awareness of the link between diet and well-being grows. This understanding is particularly encouraging during fasting periods. To support this shift, I aim to incorporate ingredients like nuts, seeds, whole grains and healthy fats into traditional recipes for a more balanced and nourishing approach. These additions not only enhance nutritional value but also help sustain a sense of fullness, making them especially beneficial during fasting. While traditional Arabic dishes remain the most popular, I’ve noticed some clients exploring diverse cuisines from other Muslim cultures around the world.

Ramadan in Jordan

In Jordan, traditional dishes play a central role in the cherished iftar gatherings, providing a sense of comfort and familiarity. Most of these gatherings take place in homes, with meals either prepared by hosts or professionally catered for. However, this year, as with last, the ongoing crisis in Gaza is likely to cast a somber tone over celebrations. Gatherings are expected to be more modest, reflecting solidarity with those facing hardship. Larger events, when organized, are often dedicated to fundraising for Palestinians in urgent need.

Additionally, suhoor gatherings are becoming increasingly popular. These pre-dawn meals range from simple snacks to elaborate spreads, showcasing a growing appreciation for this important Ramadan tradition.

Essential Ramadan menu

Traditional dishes remain essential to any Ramadan menu in Jordan, particularly for iftar gatherings. Soups, salads and an assortment of hot and cold appetizers often set the tone for the meal. Staples such as mansaf, kebbeh and vine leaves are widely cherished, alongside sweet treats like kunafa and qatayef. Suhoor menus, on the other hand, offer lighter options, such as foul, tamees and yogurt-based dishes, often accompanied by tea or fresh juices. The inclusion of nutrient-dense ingredients, such as lentils, barley or pearl millet, adds a modern, health-conscious twist to these classic offerings.