Ramadan delicacies

Baklava

Baklava is a rich, flaky, crispy dessert made from layers of filo pastry filled with either crunchy chopped pistachios, walnuts or almonds. Typically, a tray is brought out at the end of iftar and as baklava is topped with syrup, it's a genuine family favourite.

Kunafa

Another delicious Ramadan staple is kunafa. Known as the Queen of Arabic desserts, it is also made from filo pastry and topped with honey or syrup, however, it’s kunafa’s filling that makes it a beloved iftar dessert. Inside the pastry is a layer of cheese (or cream) that when served hot, creates kunafa's characteristic gooey strings.

Umm Ali

Umm Ali translates as ‘mother of Ali’ and refers to the wife of the ruler of the Ayyubid dynasty who asked her best cooks to create the most delicious dessert they could. The result was this bread pudding made with puff pastry, almonds, raisins and coconut, topped with a baked crust.

Luqmat

These simple, mouth-watering bites (the Arabic word luqma literally means mouthful) are an iftar favourite. Specially made during Ramadan, the dough balls are fried until golden brown and then served straight away with either a honey, date syrup or cinnamon coating.

Qatayef

Qatayef is commonly served during Ramadan and is essentially a sweet dumpling filled with nuts or cream. Made in a similar way to pancakes, the batter is poured onto a hot plate, except only one side is cooked before folding. The dumpling is then fried and served with honey or syrup.