Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. This is a time when many Muslims choose to fast everyday between sunrise and sunset for religious and spiritual reasons.

Ramadan is an important time of year for Muslims and is part of one of the five pillars of Islam which is known as ‘sawm’ [which means fasting].

In this article we’re sharing some meal ideas to enjoy during Ramadan.

Breaking the fast

Breaking the fast is usually the first sip of water with dates. Other options to consume when breaking the fast include:

• Date energy ball
  mix dates with almonds, coconut oil, cinnamon, shredded coconut

• Soup
  e.g chicken noodle soup, coconut curry, lentil soup, pumpkin soup

• Salad
  e.g lentil salad with lemon and herb dressing or roasted cauliflower and chickpea salad with tahini dressing

• Dried fruits

• Health fats
  e.g eggs or avocado

• Fermented foods
  e.g unsweetened yoghurt or kefir

Iftar

Iftar is the meal which is consumed after sunset in order to break the daily fast. During this time it is important to re-hydrate and refuel with nutritious options:

• Baked chicken
  with sautéed veggies and chickpeas

• Grilled fish
  with roasted veggies and brown rice

• Baked falafel
  with fattoush salad, hummus, and pita

• Tandoori chicken skewers

• Stuffed vine leaves

• Chicken or beef kofta

• Lamb or chicken kabobs

• Chickpea stew
  served over brown rice

• Tomato beef stew
  served over brown rice

Suhoor

Suhoor is the meal eaten before sunrise and is important as it provide energy and important nutrients to fuel the day to come.

• Oatmeal
  with a kefir smoothie made with fresh fruit

• Lentil soup
  with chopped carrot, celery, and onion

• Zucchini labneh dip
  with fresh chopped vegetables

• Chocolate date smoothie
  with oat milk or cows milk

• Carrot cake energy balls

• Overnight oats

• Baked oatmeal
  made with peanut butter and banana

• Instant porridge oats

• Mediterranean-style egg wrap

Hydration

It is also important to drink enough fluids to restore hydration levels.

During the non-fasting hours, replenish your water loss by consuming hydrating foods and fluids such as homemade smoothies, milky drinks, and soups. Both will provide fluids and nutrients.