India
Although only around 13 per cent of the population are Muslim, that’s still somewhere in the region of 155 million mouths to feed. A typical dish to tuck into after the Maghrib prayer is haleem – a delicacy from the central Indian city of Hyderabad made from wheat, lentils and lamb or mutton. As such, it’s very similar to Emirati harees, only (as you might expect) with a little extra spice.
Try it: For a fancy schmancy rendition, head to Ushna (02 558 1769), where they’re laying on a special à la carte selection of traditional Indian Iftar goodies. The haleem clocks in at Dhs85.
Indonesia
For this predominantly Islamic nation, desserts are often the main focus of Iftar feasts. Kolak, a sweet, coconut-based soup is particularly popular, usually served cold and filled with sugary fruits or root vegetables. Cendol, (a milkshake-esque drink made from coconut milk and long strands of brightly coloured jelly) is another common Ramadan staple, and is sold by roadside vendors throughout the holy month.
Try it: Bandung (02 645 2008) may not be the prettiest of venues, but if it’s Indonesian grub you’re craving, it’s the best option in town.
Pakistan
Here, it’s all about the heavy, fried treats, with samosas, pakoras and similarly greasy chaat-style snacks gobbled by the fistful as soon as the sun goes down. It may all sound a little uncouth, but that’s because Pakistanis save the flair for their liquid part of the meal, often replacing water with Rooh Afza, a syrupy bottled drink packed full of fruity magic and quick-release energy.
Try it: The backstreets of Al Markaziyah are teeming with pocket-sized Pakistani restaurants and chaat counters that go into overdrive when it’s time for Iftar. Try Al Tabaq (02 672 2797) behind Sun and Sand Sports on Hamdan Street for an authentic feed.
Egypt
The focus is altogether less meaty at Egyptian buffets, with foul medames (a dip made from simmered fava beans mashed together with lemon juice, parsley and garlic) the biggest staple fast-breaker. Falafel comes a close second, usually drizzled with tahini and shrouded in big pieces of piping hot flatbread. You’ll usually find molokheya – a hearty, green-hued soup – in the offing, too.
Try it: While it’s not running a buffet, Abu Shakrah (02 631 3400) has got your Egyptian grub covered when sunset comes around.
Iran
If there’s one nation more fond of its grilled meat than Lebanon, it’s Iran. Charred lamb, chicken and fish – all served with small mountains of rice – feature heavily in Iranian Iftar spreads, along with baked flatbreads and cheese-based dishes, all washed down with plenty of tea. But before all that, there’s ash reshteh, a thick, noodle strewn soup that’s perfect for prepping the stomach for the feed that lies ahead.
Try it: Western faces are rare at Sadaf (02 641 4166) – a sure sign that this slickly turned-out spot has the approval of the local Persian community. They’re running an Iftar buffet throughout the Holy Month, priced Dhs79.
Morocco
Though you’ll find harira (a spicy Moroccan chickpea soup) in practically every Ramadan tent in the city, the North African country’s Iftar repertoire doesn’t end here. As well as the ubiquitous, belly warming tagines and couscous, you’ll also encounter the likes of chebakia – a fried, honey-coated sesame cookie – while miniature, French-style pastries are usually available for dessert.
Try it: While Moroccan food in Abu Dhabi starts and ends at the Millennium Hotel’s Marakesh restaurant (02 614 600), it’s at least a suitably plush venue, and will be serving up traditional Moroccan fare from 8pm throughout Ramadan, with live Arabic musicians thrown in.
