Updated On: 18 March, 2024 10:30 AM IST | Mumbai | Ainie Rizvi
Mumbai chefs share novel iftar delights that are easy to prepare, nutritious, flavourful and don’t tire you out in the kitchen. On the spread are Palestinian Sambousek, Falafel, veg. Kibbeh and more

Try new recipes to elevate your iftar experience. Image courtesy: Bayroute, iStock
Iftaar, also known as futoor, symbolises the post-sunset meal that Muslims break their fast with during the month of Ramadan. While fasting remains central to this holy month; Ramadan is not just about food but also about controlling one’s desires and practicing spiritual reflection.
Muslims across the globe abstain from food and water between sunrise to sunset until the Imam calls for Maghrib, the Islamic evening prayer. Naturally, iftar emerges as the the most anticipated meal for people who endure 12-14 hours of hunger pangs, only to relish snacks like samosas, chicken fritters, chana dal, fruit salad, sandwiches and much more.
Despite the timeless appeal of traditional snacks, there`s room to elevate the hunger games by introducing new iftar dishes to the evening spread. In the quest for novel iftar delights, Midday.com dialed chefs from Mumbai, who share recipes that are not unique but also simple to whip up, offering a blend of nutrition, flavour and kitchen convenience.

Originating from Palestine, Sambousek are savoury pastries consisting of flaky dough folds filled with spiced ground meat or cheese and sometimes herbs. Deep-fried until golden and crispy, they offer a delicious and beloved staple in Palestinian cuisine.
Ingredients:
All-purpose flour, 2 cups
Warm water, 1/2 cup
Olive oil, 1/4 cup
Salt, 1 teaspoon
Nigella seeds (Nigel seeds), 1 teaspoon
Finely chopped English vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), 1 cup
Chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup
Chopped fresh mint, 1/4 cup
Crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup
Oil for frying
For the cucumber dill tzatziki:
Greek yoghurt, 1 cup
Grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture, 1/2 cucumber
Chopped fresh dill, 2 tablespoons
Minced garlic, 1 clove
Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, warm water, olive oil, salt and nigella seeds. Knead the dough until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. In the meantime, prepare the filling by mixing the chopped English vegetables, fresh parsley, fresh mint, and crumbled feta cheese in a bowl.
3. After the dough has rested, divide it into small balls. Roll out each ball into a thin circle on a floured surface.
4. Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling in the center of each circle of dough. Fold the dough over the filling to create an open-face triangle shape and press the edges to seal.
5. Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry the sambousek in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. To make the cucumber dill tzatziki, mix the Greek yoghurt, grated cucumber, chopped dill, minced garlic, salt and pepper in a bowl.
7. Serve the hot sambousek with the cucumber dill tzatziki on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Palestinian-inspired savoury pastries with a refreshing twist.
Also Read: Follow these 5 recipes to prepare food for your Iftar party
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