Popular Iftar Items in Bangladesh
Last Updated on April 4, 2023
Iftar is a religious observance and social event that occurs during the holy month of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. It is a time when Muslims break their daily fast at sunset with a meal, typically consisting of dates, water, and a variety of savory and sweet foods. Bangladesh is a country with a majority Muslim population, and during Ramadan, the country comes alive with the spirit of the holy month. One of the most anticipated parts of Ramadan is the iftar menu, which comprises of a wide range of delicious food items.
Most Popular Iftar Items in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is a country with a rich culinary heritage and a diverse range of flavors, spices, and ingredients. One of the most significant cultural events in Bangladesh is the holy month of Ramadan, where Muslims around the world observe a month of fasting. The fasting ends each day with the breaking of the fast, or iftar, where a wide range of traditional foods and drinks are served. Iftar items in Bangladesh are usually high in calories and are designed to provide a burst of energy after a day of fasting. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular iftar items in Bangladesh.
Chola Boot
Chola boot is a delicious and nutritious iftar item in Bangladesh. It is made by boiling chickpeas with a blend of spices and herbs, which gives it a unique flavor. It is usually served hot, with a side of puffed rice, sliced onions, and green chilies. Chola boot is rich in protein and fiber and provides a burst of energy after a long day of fasting.
Piyaju
Piyaju is a crispy and flavorful snack that is popular during iftar in Bangladesh. It is made by blending ground lentils with onions, green chilies, and a mix of spices. The mixture of lentils and other spices are then formed into small balls and deep-fried until golden brown. Piyaju is usually served with a side of mint chutney or tamarind sauce.
Beguni
Beguni is another popular iftar item in Bangladesh. It is made by slicing eggplant into thin rounds, dipping them in a spiced batter made from chickpea flour, and then deep-frying them until golden brown. Beguni is usually served with a side of hot sauce or mint chutney.
Samosa
Samosa is a popular snack in many parts of the world, and Bangladesh is no exception. Samosa is a popular iftar item in Bangladesh that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a fried or baked pastry that is filled with a spiced mixture of potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat or shrimp.
Jilapi
Jilapi is a sweet and syrupy dessert that is a staple during iftar in Bangladesh. It is made by forming a dough from flour, sugar, and water, which is then deep-fried until golden brown. The jilapi is then soaked in a sweet syrup made from sugar, water, and sometimes cardamom or saffron. Jilapi is usually served hot and is a favorite among children and adults alike.
Alu Chop
Alu chop is a popular iftar item in Bangladesh that is made by boiling and mashing potatoes with a blend of spices and herbs. Alu chop is a satisfying and hearty iftar item that is loved by people of all ages in Bangladesh. It is often served alongside other popular iftar items such as piyaju, samosas, and jilapi. The crispy and savory outer coating of the alu chop provides a satisfying crunch while the mashed potato filling provides a soft and comforting texture.
Haleem
Haleem is a thick and hearty stew that is popular in many parts of the world, including Bangladesh. It is made by slow-cooking a blend of lentils, meat (usually beef or lamb), and spices for several hours. The result is a thick and flavorful stew that is usually served hot, with a side of naan bread or rice.
Khichuri
Khichuri is a traditional Bengali dish that is often served during iftar. It is made by cooking rice and lentils together with a blend of spices and herbs. The result is a comforting and flavorful dish that is usually served hot, with a side of crispy fried onions, a boiled egg, and sometimes a piece of meat or fish.
Lassi
Lassi is a popular drink in many parts of South Asia, including Bangladesh. It is made by blending yogurt with water and a variety of spices and flavors, such as cardamom, saffron, and rose water. The result is a creamy and refreshing drink that is perfect for quenching thirst after a day of fasting.
Kebab
Kebabs are a staple of iftar menus in Bangladesh and are a crowd-pleaser. There are many different types of kebabs that are popular in Bangladesh, including chicken, beef, and lamb. They are usually marinated in a mixture of spices and yogurt and then grilled until tender and juicy. Kebabs are usually served with naan or paratha and a side of chutney.
Rooh Afza
Rooh Afza is a sweet and refreshing drink that is popular in Bangladesh during Ramadan. It is made by mixing Rooh Afza syrup, which is a blend of rose petals, fruits, and herbs, with water and ice , which creates a sweet and fragrant drink that is perfect for breaking the fast. Rooh Afza can also be used as a base for other drinks, such as milkshakes and smoothies.
Dates
Dates are a traditional food item that is commonly eaten during iftar to break the fast. They are a rich source of energy and are a great way to restore blood sugar levels after a day of fasting.
Doi Bora
Doi bora, or dahi vada, is a popular iftar item in Bangladesh. It is a savory snack made by deep-frying small lentil-based dumplings and then soaking them in a spiced yogurt sauce. The dish is often garnished with a variety of toppings, such as chopped onions, cilantro, and tamarind chutney.
Fruit Chaat
Fruit chaat is a refreshing and healthy iftar item that is popular in Bangladesh. It is made by combining a variety of fruits (such as apples, bananas, and mangoes) with a blend of spices and herbs, such as chaat masala, cumin powder, and black salt. The result is a tangy and flavorful fruit salad that is perfect for breaking the fast.
In conclusion, iftar is a time of celebration and communal gathering in Bangladesh, and the food served during this time reflects this spirit of generosity and hospitality. From savory snacks like piyaju and beguni to hearty stews like haleem and khichuri, there is something for everyone to enjoy during iftar. So if you ever have the opportunity to experience iftar in Bangladesh, be sure to try some of these delicious and traditional iftar items!
