Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims around the world, and Bahrain is no exception. Bahraini Muslims follow the tradition of fasting during daylight hours from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan. Ramadan is a month of spirituality, self-reflection, and kindness towards others. It is also a month of socializing and enjoying delicious food with family and friends, especially during Iftar and Suhoor.
Iftar Culture in Bahrain
Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset, and it is an essential part of Ramadan culture in Bahrain. Muslims in Bahrain gather with their families and friends to share this meal. The atmosphere in Bahrain during Iftar is truly unique, as the streets are filled with people carrying plates of food to share with others.
One of the most famous Iftar dishes in Bahrain is “fattoush,” a salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and toasted bread.
Another favorite is “sambousa,” a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. “Luqaimat,” a sweet doughnut-like dessert, is also a popular treat during Iftar in Bahrain.
Suhoor Culture in Bahrain
Suhoor is the meal Muslims eat before dawn, before starting their fast for the day. In Bahrain, Suhoor is a less social event compared to Iftar. It is usually a quiet and peaceful meal that people have with their families. Suhoor is an essential meal as it provides the necessary energy and hydration to get through the day of fasting.
Favorite Iftar and Suhoor Dishes in Bahrain
Bahrain is known for its rich and diverse culinary culture. During Ramadan, Bahraini Muslims prepare a variety of traditional dishes for Iftar and Suhoor. Here are some of the most popular dishes:
Machboos: A dish made with rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and spices, Machboos is a staple dish in Bahrain and is often served during Iftar.
Thareed: A traditional bread and meat stew, Thareed is a hearty meal often served during Suhoor in Bahrain.
Harees: A porridge made with wheat and meat, Harees is a filling and nutritious meal often served during Suhoor in Bahrain.
Balaleet: A sweet vermicelli dish made with saffron, cardamom, and rosewater, Balaleet is a popular dessert often served during Suhoor in Bahrain.
Qatayef: A sweet stuffed pancake, Qatayef is a traditional dessert often served during Iftar in Bahrain.
In conclusion, Ramadan is an essential and joyful month for Muslims in Bahrain. Iftar and Suhoor are two important meals that Muslims in Bahrain look forward to every day during Ramadan. Bahraini Muslims prepare a variety of traditional dishes for Iftar and Suhoor, and the atmosphere during these meals is warm, friendly, and full of love.
During the holy month of Ramadan, many restaurants and hotels in Bahrain offer special menus for Iftar and Suhoor, catering to the needs of those who are fasting. Bahrain has a rich culinary culture, and during Ramadan, people enjoy a variety of traditional Bahraini dishes as well as international cuisine.
Iftar Food Offerings:
For Iftar, restaurants and hotels in Bahrain offer a wide variety of dishes, ranging from traditional Bahraini cuisine to international cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes offered during Iftar include:
Bahraini Thareed: A traditional Bahraini dish made with meat, vegetables, and bread, Thareed is a staple Iftar dish in Bahrain.
Samosas: A popular appetizer made with a pastry shell filled with spiced potatoes or meat, Samosas are a staple Iftar dish in Bahrain.
Shawarma: A Middle Eastern wrap made with grilled meat and vegetables, Shawarma is a popular Iftar dish in Bahrain.
Fattoush: A salad made of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and crispy bread, Fattoush is a refreshing dish commonly served during Iftar in Bahrain.
Luqaimat: A sweet and sticky dessert made of fried dough balls drizzled with honey or syrup, Luqaimat is a popular Iftar dessert in Bahrain.
Suhoor Food Offerings:
Suhoor is the meal Muslims eat before dawn to prepare for the day of fasting ahead. During Ramadan, many restaurants and hotels in Bahrain offer special menus for Suhoor. Some of the most popular Suhoor dishes in Bahrain include:
Balaleet: A sweet and spicy vermicelli dish made with saffron, sugar, and cardamom, Balaleet is a popular Suhoor dish in Bahrain.
Bahraini Chicken Machboos: A traditional Bahraini rice dish made with chicken, spices, and vegetables, Machboos is a filling and nutritious Suhoor dish in Bahrain.
Omelette: A simple and easy-to-make dish, omelettes are a popular Suhoor dish in Bahrain and can be filled with a variety of vegetables and cheeses.
Dates: A natural source of energy, dates are a popular Suhoor food in Bahrain and are often served with milk or yogurt.
Laban: A refreshing yogurt drink, Laban is a popular Suhoor beverage in Bahrain and is often flavored with mint, cucumber, or rose water.
In conclusion, restaurants and hotels in Bahrain offer a wide range of dishes during Ramadan for both Iftar and Suhoor. From traditional Bahraini cuisine to international dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy during this holy month.
