As a lover of Bangladeshi cuisine, I am excited to share my personal experience and advice about Bangladeshi iftar recipes.
Iftar is the evening meal that Muslims have after fasting during the month of Ramadan. It is a time to break the fast and enjoy a variety of delicious dishes with family and friends.
In Bangladeshi culture, iftar holds great significance as it is a time to not only break the fast but also to come together as a community and share the joy of this special occasion. It is a time to strengthen bonds, exchange greetings, and enjoy traditional Bangladeshi iftar.
Bangladeshi iftar recipes are a unique blend of traditional and modern dishes. From chickpea fritters, eggplant fritters, and sweet spiral-shaped jilapi to beef shami kabab, prawn tempura, and chicken shashlik, there is a wide variety of dishes to choose from.
As a home cook, I have tried and tested all of these recipes and have found that they are not only delicious but also easy to make.
Whether you are looking to try something new or recreate a traditional recipe, there is no better time to explore the wonderful world of Bangladeshi cuisine than during iftar.
Iftar Starter
When it comes to breaking the fast during Ramadan, I think it’s safe to say that most Muslims in Bangladesh and all over the world begin with a sweet and juicy treat: dates (we known as “Khejur” in Bangladesh). After munching on these delicious fruits, many people wash them down with a refreshing drink or fresh juice before moving on to the main course of traditional iftar recipes. It’s a beautiful and meaningful way to start off the meal and honor the holy month of Ramadan.
Traditional Bangladeshi Iftar Recipes
1. Chola-boot bhaji (Black Chickpeas Recipe)
Black Chickpeas are a staple and traditional dish in Bangladeshi iftar menus. This recipe made using black chickpeas, mashed potatoes, cooking oil, onions, green chillies, salt, chilli flakes, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and curry powder. These ingredients come together to create a delicious and flavorful dish. During Ramadan, Chola-boot bhaji is often served with Muri (Parched Rice).
2. Beguni (Eggplant Fritters)
Beguni, also known as eggplant fritters, is a popular iftar item in Bangladesh. This dish involves thinly sliced eggplant coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep-fried until crispy. It is typically served with a sweet and tangy tomato chutney, which complements the savory and slightly spicy flavors of the fritters. Beguni is a beloved snack in Bangladesh and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
3. Piyaju
Piyaju, also known as onion fritters, is a traditional iftar item in Bangladesh. While it is called onion fritters, its main ingredient is actually Khesari Dal. Although other dals like lentil can be used, Khesari Dal’s piyaju is considered the best for a crispy and flavorful texture.
To make this dish, soaked and blended Khesari Dal paste is mixed with thinly sliced onions and a variety of spices. The mixture is then deep-fried until golden brown. Piyaju is often served with a tangy tamarind or mint chutney, which complements the spicy and savory flavors of the fritters. This dish is a huge hit in Bangladesh and is enjoyed throughout the year.
4. Aloo Chop (Potato Fritters)
Aloo Chop, also known as Potato Fritters, is a popular vegetarian iftar item in Bangladesh. This classic snack is made by mashing boiled potatoes and mixing them with onions, green chilies, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The mixture is then shaped into small round patties or kababs using the palms of your hands.
Next, the patties are coated with a mixture of gram flour (bason), salt, and water to create a batter-like consistency. This coating gives the aloo chop a crispy and crunchy texture when deep-fried. The deep-frying process not only makes the fritters crispy but also imparts a lovely golden-brown color.
Aloo chop is often served as an appetizer or snack during iftar, the evening meal that breaks the daily fast during the Islamic month of Ramadan.
I make it also be served as a tea-time snack because of my husband love it too much. To enhance the flavor, I also like to add chopped cilantro or mint leaves to the potato mixture. Others enjoy a tangy kick by serving aloo chop with tamarind chutney or ketchup.
That’s why aloo chop is a delicious and versatile snack that is easy to prepare and enjoyed by many in Bangladesh.
5. Dimer Chop (Egg Fritters)
Dimer Chop, also known as Egg Fritters, is an another traditional iftar item in Bangladesh. This snack is made by hard-boiling eggs and then coating them in a spiced batter made from gram flour (bason), salt, turmeric, red chili powder, and a blend of other spices such as cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds.
The coated eggs are then deep-fried until golden-brown and crispy. The resulting fritters are crunchy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Dimer chop can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer during iftar, or as a side dish with a meal.
Dimer chop is a versatile snack that can be customized to suit individual tastes. Some people like to add finely chopped onions, green chilies, and cilantro to the batter to enhance the flavor. I like to add a tangy kick by serving the fritters with a side of tamarind chutney or ketchup.
In addition to being a delicious snack, dimer chop is also a good source of protein and other nutrients found in eggs. Eggs are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and choline.
6. Jilapi
Jilapi is a sweet and spiral-shaped dessert that you’ll find on every iftar table in Bangladesh. I don’t know about you, but I need it in my iftar menu every day! I love to break it up and mix it with my chola bhoot mixer – the taste is simply unbeatable. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out!
Jilapi is made from a batter of flour, sugar, and yeast, which is piped into a spiral shape and deep-fried. Once cooked, it is soaked in a sugar syrup flavored with cardamom and saffron. This dessert is available year-round in Bangladesh and is also a popular street food.
So if you’re looking for a sweet and indulgent treat to satisfy your cravings during Ramadan, give jilapi a try. Trust me, you won’t regret it! And if you do try it.
7. Boondia
Boondia is a popular sweet snack in Bangladesh during Ramadan and is often served as an iftar item. Made from chickpea flour (also known as “besan”), it is usually shaped like small balls or pearls. Boondia is commonly prepared by soaking the boondia balls in sugar syrup and adding cardamom and saffron for flavor.
Not only is boondia tasty, but it’s also easy to make, which is why it’s a favorite among those hosting iftar gatherings. It’s a great option for those looking for a quick and satisfying sweet dish as an alternative to jilapi.
Want to know how to make this delicious and easy-to-prepare boondi for your next iftar gathering?
8. Haleem
Oh my god, if you don’t have haleem on your iftar table, it’s like your meal is incomplete! Haleem is a thick and creamy stew-like dish that is extremely popular in Bangladesh during Ramadan. It’s made from a mixture of lentils, wheat, and meat (usually beef or chicken), all cooked together with a delicious blend of spices and herbs.
The key to a perfect haleem is to cook it low and slow, letting all the ingredients blend together until they form a rich, velvety consistency. The result is a hearty and filling dish that’s perfect for breaking your fast after a long day of fasting.
Haleem is not only delicious, but it’s also very nutritious, thanks to its high protein and fiber content. So if you’re looking for a satisfying and healthy iftar dish, haleem is definitely the way to go!
So why not try making haleem at home this Ramadan? You won’t be disappointed! And if you’ve already tried it, let me know in the comments below what you think of this amazing dish.
9. Doi-Chira (flatten Rice & Yogurt)
Doi-Chira, or flattened rice with yogurt, is a super healthy and delicious traditional iftar dish that’s been around for years. In fact, I remember my grandparents always eating this dish during Ramadan, and it’s still a popular choice today.
It’s really simple to make. Just soak the flattened rice (chira) for 20-30 minutes, then wash it and mix it with some sliced bananas, a pinch of salt, and some sugar. Finally, add yogurt to taste – you can use sweet or sour yogurt, depending on your preference.
If you want to make it even tastier, you can add some milk and dates (optional) for extra sweetness and nutrition. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also very healthy, thanks to the high protein and fiber content of the chira and the probiotics in the yogurt.
You can serve Doi-Chira as a dessert or a main dish – it’s totally up to you!
10. Borhani
Borhani is a spicy yogurt drink that’s an essential part of any iftar spread in Bangladesh. It’s made from a blend of yogurt, mint, coriander, cumin, and chili powder, and it’s the perfect refreshing and cooling drink to counterbalance the heat of the other spicy dishes on the table.
This traditional Bangladeshi iftar recipe is loved by many for its unique flavors and cultural significance. It’s just one of many delicious dishes that make up the rich and diverse cuisine of Bangladesh.
So why not give Borhani and other traditional Bangladeshi iftar recipes a try this Ramadan?
Modern Bangladeshi Iftar Recipes
11. Mint Lemonade
Mint lemonade is a refreshing and cooling drink that is perfect for modern Bangladeshi iftar. It’s also popular in the summer and is easy to make at home. You can customize it to suit your taste preferences.
To make mint lemonade, start by juicing several lemons and straining out any seeds or pulp. Next, add the lemon juice to a pitcher along with some sugar or another sweetener of your choice. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Then, add fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and use a muddler or wooden spoon to gently crush the leaves and release their flavor. Finally, fill the pitcher with cold water and stir everything together.
You can adjust the sweetness and mint flavor to your liking by adding more or less sugar and mint leaves. Some people also like to add a splash of sparkling water for some added fizziness.
Serve the mint lemonade over ice and garnish it with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lemon. It’s a perfect beverage for hot summer days or anytime you’re craving a refreshing and tasty drink!
12. Chicken Samosas
Chicken samosas are a popular iftar item that have been given a modern twist. They’re a crispy and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The pastry shell is made from a combination of all-purpose flour, salt, and ghee or oil. It’s important to get the pastry dough just right – it should be soft and pliable, but not too sticky or tough.
The filling is what really sets these samosas apart. To make the filling, I start by cooking diced chicken in a mix of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, until it’s tender and juicy. Then, I add in some chopped vegetables, such as potatoes, onions, and peas, for added texture and flavor.
Once the filling is ready, I roll out the pastry dough and cut it into triangles. Then, I place a spoonful of filling onto each triangle and fold the dough over to create a triangle-shaped samosa. The samosas are then fried until golden brown and crispy.
To serve, I often pair chicken samosas with a tangy tamarind chutney. This chutney is made from tamarind pulp, sugar, salt, and spices like cumin and red chili powder. It’s a perfect accompaniment to the savory, spiced filling of the samosas.
Overall, chicken samosas are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for iftar or any other occasion.
13. Beef Shami Kabab
Beef Shami kabab is a popular iftar item in Bangladesh, and this modern version adds a spicy twist to the traditional recipe. It is made by mixing finely ground meat with chana dal and spices, and then shaping it into small round patties that are fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
This dish is not only popular during Ramadan, but also served as a special dish in Bangladeshi weddings, known as ‘biye bari’ in Bengali culture. The kababs are often served with mint chutney and sliced onions as a flavorful appetizer or snack.
14. Prawn Tempura
Prawn tempura is one of my favorite item for iftar. When I make it, it turns out crazy crispy and delicious. To make this recipe, you only need a few ingredients such as prawns, tempura flour, corn flour, egg, salt, and oil for deep frying.
To make prawn tempura, first, you need to clean and devein the prawns. Then, prepare the batter by mixing tempura flour, corn flour, egg, salt, and water. Dip the prawns into the batter and deep fry them in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Serve the prawn tempura hot with a dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce.
15. Chicken Shashlik
Chicken shashlik is a modern twist on a classic iftar dish. Some people may think that it’s only available on restaurant menus, but it’s actually quite easy to make at home. It’s a great way to add some variety to your iftar menu and impress your guests.
To make chicken shashlik, you will need chicken pieces marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices, garlic paste, lime juice, and sauce. The chicken is then skewered with colorful vegetables such as bell peppers and onions.
The skewers are then cooked on a hot pan, rotating them occasionally and brushing them with oil until they are cooked to perfection. With a little bit of preparation and patience, you can enjoy this delicious dish with your family and friends during Ramadan, or any time of the year.
16. Spicy Potato Wedges
Spicy potato wedges are a delicious and easy-to-make iftar item. Potatoes are cut into wedges, coated in a spicy batter, and then baked until crispy. They are often served with a tangy tomato ketchup.
These modern Bangladeshi iftar recipes are a great way to add some variety to your iftar menu. They are easy to make and sure to be a hit with guests. Try incorporating some of these dishes into your next iftar celebration.
Vegetarian Bangladeshi Iftar Recipes
17. Paneer Pakora (Cottage Cheese Fritters)
Paneer Pakora, also known as Cottage Cheese Fritters, is a popular vegetarian iftar item made from cubes of cottage cheese that are coated in a spiced batter and then deep-fried until crispy. These fritters are not only delicious but also easy to prepare.
To make Paneer Pakora, the cottage cheese is cut into cubes and then dipped in a batter made of gram flour, rice flour, spices such as cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt, and water. The cubes are then deep-fried in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy.
Paneer Pakora is a great snack for iftar as it is rich in protein and a good source of calcium. It is a popular dish in many parts of the Indian subcontinent and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
18. Tofu Tikka
Tofu tikka is a vegetarian version of the classic chicken tikka. Tofu is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, and then grilled to perfection. It is a healthy and delicious vegetarian iftar item.
To make Tofu Tikka, the first step is to press the tofu to remove any excess water. Then, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and prepare the marinade. The marinade can be made using yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix the marinade well and coat the tofu cubes with it. Let the tofu marinate for at least one to two hours in the refrigerator.
Once the tofu has marinated, preheat the oven or grill. If using the oven, place the tofu cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, turning them over halfway through. If using a grill, place the tofu cubes on skewers and grill them for 8-10 minutes, turning them over occasionally.
Tofu Tikka can be served hot with a side of mint chutney or coriander chutney. It is a healthy and delicious vegetarian option for iftar as tofu is a good source of protein and other essential nutrients.
Tofu Tikka is a perfect vegetarian dish for iftar in Bangladesh. It is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and a healthy addition to your iftar menu. Give it a try and impress your family and guests with this delicious and nutritious dish.
19. Palong Shak Pakora (Spinach Pakora)
Palong Shak Pakora, also known as Spinach Pakora, is a most popular Vegetarian Bangladeshi Iftar item. These crispy and delicious pakoras are made from fresh spinach leaves that are mixed with chickpea flour, spices, and herbs, and then deep-fried until golden brown.
To make Palong Shak Pakora, the first step is to wash and chop fresh spinach leaves into small pieces. Then, in a mixing bowl, chickpea flour is combined with spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Finely chopped onions, green chilies, and fresh coriander leaves are also added to the mixture to enhance the flavor.
Once the batter is ready, the spinach leaves are added to it and mixed well until each leaf is coated evenly with the batter. The mixture is then shaped into small balls or flattened discs and deep-fried until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Palong Shak Pakoras are usually served hot with a dipping sauce made of tamarind, mint, or coriander chutney. These pakoras are not only delicious but also rich in nutrients as spinach is a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Palong Shak Pakora is an excellent iftar item that is easy to make and loved by everyone. So, if you want to add a touch of deliciousness to your iftar menu, give these crispy spinach pakoras a try!
Additionally, this recipe can also be made with Pui Shak (Malabar Spinach) or Lal Shak (Red Spinach) as an alternative to Palong Shak.
20. Mixed Vegetable Pakora
Mixed vegetable pakora is a vegetarian iftar item made from a mixture of vegetables coated in a spiced batter and deep-fried. It’s a delicious and healthy way to enjoy vegetables during iftar, and is a popular Bangladeshi dish that’s especially enjoyed on rainy days. This vegetarian iftar recipe is not only easy to make, but also a great option for those who are looking to add some variety to their iftar menu.
To make mixed vegetable pakora, you’ll need two or three types of seasonal vegetables, such as green papaya, cabbage, and carrot. These vegetables are mixed with onion slices, all-purpose flour, spices, eggs, garlic paste, and chopped green chilies.
Mix everything together well to form a dough. The vegetable mixed dough is then portioned out into small pieces and deep-fried in hot oil in batches until they turn light golden and crispy. Serve these hot pakoras with chili sauce or mint chutney for a flavorful and satisfying snack.
Alternatively, you can make this recipe using only finely sliced potatoes, which are also called potato pakora or jhal pitha. These crispy and spicy potato fritters are a delicious and popular option that’s loved by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Overall, mixed vegetable pakora and potato pakora are both delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make iftar items that are sure to impress your guests. Give them a try and enjoy their flavorful and satisfying taste!
Suggestions for Further Exploration of Bangladeshi Iftar
There are many other delicious and unique Bangladeshi dishes worth exploring beyond iftar recipes. Some popular dishes include biryani, nihari, grilled chicken, nan roti and dal puri. Additionally, you can experiment with different regional variations of Bangladeshi cuisine, such as the spicy cuisine of Sylhet or the seafood-rich cuisine of Cox’s Bazar.
So, if you love to try new things, explore these Bangladeshi iftar recipes that are definitely worth a try! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to ask in the comments.
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