Ramadan Feast: A Culinary Journey through Saudi Culture
Ramadan is not just a month of fasting for Muslims, but a time for family gatherings and delicious feasts in Saudi Arabia. The tables are filled with a diverse menu of exclusive dishes that are only made during this holy month.
Breaking the Fast
Breaking the fast with dates is a tradition followed by Muslims, inspired by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). In Saudi culture, dates are accompanied by Arabic coffee, soup, and fried or baked pastries like samboosa. And for those with a sweet tooth, Vimto is the go-to drink to quench thirst.
Arabian Delights
The dessert spread in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan includes kunafa, logaimat, and qatayef filled with cream or nuts. These treats add a sweet touch to the iftar gatherings.
Regional Flavors
Each region in Saudi Arabia has its own favorite dishes. From hanini in the central region to balaleet in the Eastern Province, the culinary diversity is rich and unique. In the western region of Hijaz, the tradition of dish exchange is still alive, with a variety of dishes being shared.
The Foul Tradition
Foul, made with fava beans, and tamees bread are considered staples for iftar in Saudi households. The demand for these dishes increases during Ramadan, with people lining up at shops to purchase them before breaking their fast.
Chaos at the Foul Shop
At a foul shop in Jeddah’s Al-Faisaliah district, customers from different nationalities gather to buy foul before iftar. The long lines and chaos are worth it for many, as foul is an essential part of the Ramadan feast.
“What distinguishes one foul shop from the other is how it is prepared. Each foul seller has their own method and mix of spices to make the dish unique,” said Taha Abdel Samad, a worker at the shop.