Iftar is a beautiful time when families and friends gather to break their fast, and in Pakistan, the table is often filled with a variety of delicious dishes. The warmth of spices and the aroma of freshly cooked food create an inviting atmosphere that everyone looks forward to. Let’s explore some mouthwatering recipes that will not only satisfy your cravings but also add a special touch to your Iftar spread!
Samosas
Samosa Recipe from RecipeTin Eats
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Dipping sauce, potatoes, frozen green peas, garam masala, black mustard seeds Total Time: 45 min.
Samosa Recipe (Punjabi Potato Samosa) from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Potatoes, green peas, fennel, garam masala, ginger Total Time: 55 min.
Lamb Kheema Samosa (Samosa Stuffed With Spiced Ground Lamb) from Serious Eats
Rating: 4. Ingredients: King arthur, lean ground lamb, apple cider, fresh green chiles, garam masala Total Time: 2 hr 10 min.
Samosas are a beloved snack that packs a flavorful punch in every bite. Fried to golden perfection, these crispy pastries are typically filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or even meat, making them a versatile treat for any palate.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups boiled and mashed potatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Oil for frying
What makes samosas extra special is their ability to bring people together. As you prepare the filling and wrap the dough, it becomes a fun activity that everyone can enjoy. Plus, when you serve them with a tangy tamarind or mint chutney, the flavors are simply out of this world!
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Pakoras
Pakora from Fatto in casa da Benedetta
Rating: 4.3. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
Pakora from Ricette GialloZafferano
Rating: 4.4. Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.
Pakora: la ricetta delle frittelle indiane di verdure aromatiche e golose from Cookist
Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
Pakoras are crispy, deep-fried fritters that are perfect for munching on while waiting for the main meal. Made with a variety of vegetables, these little delights are coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter that turns beautifully golden when fried.
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
- 1 cup assorted vegetables (potatoes, onions, spinach)
- Water as needed
- Oil for frying
Pakoras are not just tasty; they hold a special place in Pakistani culture, often being the favorite snack during Ramadan. Their crispy texture and spicy flavor are a delightful contrast to the sweetness of dates traditionally eaten to break the fast. Trust me, once you start munching on these, it’s hard to stop!
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Fruit Chaat
Pakistani Fruit Chaat (with essential tips!) from Tea for Turmeric
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.
Fruit Chaat (Fruit Salad with Chaat Masala) from Piping Pot Curry
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 10 min Total Time: 10 min.
Fruit Chaat (Indian Fruit Salad) from My Heart Beets
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 5, 0(7)
This refreshing fruit chaat is a colorful mix of seasonal fruits tossed together with spices, giving it a zesty twist. Ideal for cooling off after a day of fasting, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious!
- 2 apples, chopped
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1 cup papaya, cubed
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Mint leaves for garnish
Fruit chaat is popular because it’s not just a dish; it’s an experience! The burst of flavors from the fruits combined with the tangy chaat masala makes it a delightful treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a great way to incorporate vitamins into your meal while still enjoying something sweet and spicy!
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Chicken Biryani
Biryani di pollo from Il Cucchiaio d'Argento
Rating: 4. Ingredients: 4, 0(21)
Chicken Biryani Recipe from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 1 h 25 min Total Time: 1 h 25 min.
Chicken biryani from BBC Good Food
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.
Chicken biryani is a fragrant, spiced rice dish that is a true crowd-pleaser. With tender chicken pieces cooked alongside basmati rice, this one-pot wonder is a staple for special occasions and family gatherings.
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 500g chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- Spices (cinnamon, cloves, cardamom)
- Fresh cilantro and mint for garnish
The beauty of biryani lies in its layers of flavor. Each grain of rice is infused with spices, while the chicken becomes tender and juicy, creating a dish that is simply irresistible. It’s not just food; it’s a celebration on your plate, making it a must-have for Iftar gatherings!
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Sheer Khurma
40+ Pakistani Ramadan Recipes Including Pakistani Fruit Chaat (With Easy Chaat Masala Recipe) from Tea for Turmeric
Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.
Dahi Baray – 15+ Iftar Recipes (that are actually Iftar Recipes) from Flour & Spice
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 5, 0(11)
41+ Iftar Ideas | Ramadan Recipes + Aloo Tikki Recipe from Fatima Cooks
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 5, 0(8)
Sheer khurma is a delicious, creamy dessert made with vermicelli, milk, and a variety of nuts. This sweet dish is often prepared to mark festive occasions, especially during Ramadan, making it a perfect treat to end your Iftar meal.
- 1 cup vermicelli
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pistachios, raisins)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
This dessert is special because it combines rich flavors and comforting textures that warm the heart. It’s a family favorite, often passed down through generations, and the addition of nuts adds a delightful crunch. Once you take a spoonful, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved treat during Ramadan!