As Ramadan 2025 approaches, it’s a time for spiritual reflection, community, and sharing meals with loved ones. To enhance your culinary experience during this holy month, consider exploring these cookbooks by esteemed Muslim authors, offering a diverse range of recipes suitable for suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (meal to break the fast).
1. “Rooza” by Nadiya Hussain
Renowned for her engaging approach to cooking, Nadiya Hussain presents “Rooza,” a heartfelt tribute to the holy month of Ramadan. This cookbook invites you to explore the rich tapestry of Muslim cuisine with recipes inspired by Ramadan and Eid celebrations. From traditional dishes to contemporary twists, “Rooza” offers a variety of options to make your suhoor and iftar meals special.
2. “Lugma” by Noor Murad
Chef Noor Murad’s latest cookbook, Lugma, is a celebration of Bahraini and Middle Eastern cuisine, packed with over 100 vibrant, flavour-packed recipes. Meaning “a bite” in Arabic, Lugma embraces the essence of shared meals and home-cooked comfort. From fragrant rice dishes to zesty salads and indulgent desserts, this book offers an array of dishes perfect for suhoor and iftar. Murad’s signature style—bold flavours, accessible techniques, and a deep love for her heritage—shines through, making Lugma an inspiring addition to your Ramadan kitchen.
3. The 20-Minute Fix by Saliha Mahmood Ahmed
In The 20-Minute Fix, MasterChef winner Saliha Mahmood Ahmed delivers a collection of quick, flavour-packed recipes designed for busy lives. Rooted in her expertise as a doctor and chef, this cookbook blends nutritious ingredients with bold spices, making it easy to create satisfying meals in just 20 minutes. From hearty one-pan dinners to vibrant salads and speedy comfort foods, The 20-Minute Fix is perfect for effortless suhoor and nourishing iftar spreads, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying Ramadan with loved ones.
4. Ramadan Guide by Nora Achmaoui
Entrepreneur and author Nora Achmaoui presents the Ramadan Guide, a comprehensive resource designed to enrich both the culinary and spiritual aspects of Ramadan. This bilingual book, featuring content in both Arabic and English, offers 68 diverse recipes alongside over 21 inspirational chapters aimed at transforming your Ramadan experience. Achmaoui’s guide serves as a heart-to-heart journey, providing practical advice and soulful insights to help readers unlock the full potential of the holy month. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your spiritual practice or explore new culinary delights, the Ramadan Guide is crafted to support and inspire you throughout this sacred time.
5. Bismillah, Let’s Eat! by Zehra Allibhai
In her debut cookbook, Bismillah, Let’s Eat!, Toronto-based fitness influencer and coach Zehra Allibhai shares over 135 fresh and vibrant recipes inspired by her Indian Kenyan heritage and global culinary experiences. The title, “Bismillah,” meaning “I begin in the name of God,” reflects the practice of expressing gratitude before meals. Allibhai’s collection emphasizes family-friendly, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare dishes, making it an excellent resource for suhoor and iftar during Ramadan. From recreating traditional East African and Indian flavours to introducing healthy twists on classic comfort foods, this cookbook invites everyone to enjoy wholesome meals that nourish both body and soul.
6. The Ramadan Cookbook by Anisa Karolia
Anisa Karolia, one of the UK’s most popular Muslim food bloggers, presents The Ramadan Cookbook, a collection of 80 delicious and easy-to-make recipes tailored for the holy month of Ramadan and beyond. This cookbook offers a variety of dishes suitable for suhoor (pre-dawn meals) and iftar (evening meals to break the fast), as well as celebratory feasts for Eid al-Fitr. From hearty mains to delightful desserts, Anisa’s approachable style ensures that both novice and experienced cooks can create family-friendly, fuss-free, and filling meals. Accompanied by beautiful photographs, each recipe reflects Anisa’s mission to share quick and accessible dishes, including favorites from her childhood. The Ramadan Cookbook is an essential resource for anyone looking to enhance their Ramadan experience with flavorful and nourishing meals.
Tips for Healthy Fasting During Ramadan
Maintaining a balanced diet during Ramadan is essential for sustaining energy levels and overall health. Here are some recommendations:
- Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal): Incorporate complex carbohydrates like whole grains, proteins such as eggs or dairy, and hydrating fruits and vegetables. Avoid excessive salt to prevent dehydration.
- Iftar (Evening Meal): Break your fast with dates and water, followed by a balanced meal including lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. Moderation is key to avoid overburdening the digestive system.
By integrating these cookbooks into your Ramadan preparations, you can explore a variety of flavours and traditions, enriching your culinary journey during this sacred month.
Ramadan Mubarak!
Journalist, Editor and Photographer
