10 Traditional Middle Eastern Sweets You Must Binge On This Ramadan

With the Holy Month of Ramadan just around the corner, we're sure preparations are in full swing! While the Holy Month is a period of relfection and devotion, it also brings with it joy and celebration. And, no celebration is complete without sweets, right?

The UAE emerges as a haven for those seeking to indulge in the season's most delectable desserts. Traditional Middle Eastern sweets take centre stage, delighting taste buds and providing essential sustenance. Besides, these treats are not just a feast for the senses, but also offer energy and necessary calories during the fasting hours.

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So, here are 10 traditional Ramadan sweets that contribute to the festive spirit.

1. Luqaimat

Luqaimat, translating to 'bite-sized' in Arabic, is a Ramadan favorite. These delicious dumplings, made from flour, sugar, starch, saffron, cardamom powder, and dry yeast, are rolled in date syrup and can be sprinkled with date molasses or sesame seeds. The combination of flavors makes Luqaimat a sought-after treat during the holy month.

2. Assidat Al-Boubar

For those who prefer less sweetness, Assidat al-Boubar, also known as Aseeda, is an ideal choice. This pumpkin porridge, mildly sweetened and enriched with milk, sugar, almond flour, butter, rose water, ground cardamom, almonds, raisins, and clarified butter, is a traditional delicacy widely consumed during Ramadan and Eid.

3. Qatayef

Qatayef, a staple at every iftar and suhoor table, resembles a pancake filled with a pistachio and sugar mixture. Alternatives include Ashta or Akkawi cheese fillings. Fried and dipped in sugar syrup before serving, Qatayef ensures a sweet Ramadan experience.

4. Chebab

Chebab, an Emirati pancake, blends traditional flavors like cardamom, saffron, and dates. Cooked until it achieves a reddish-brown color and texture, Chebab is a delightful dish that adds variety to the Ramadan spread.

5. Balaleet

Balaleet offers a unique combination of sweetened vermicelli and eggs, seasoned with cardamom and saffron. Served with an omelette and bread, this dish strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory.

6. Baklava

Baklava, a Turkish delight, enjoys popularity during Ramadan. Prepared with thin layers of Filo dough and filled with chopped nuts, raisins, and cashews, it's bound by honey or syrup, making it an irresistible treat.

7. Kunafa

Kunafa, known for its rich texture and taste, is a vermicelli cheese pastry made with butter, water, lemon juice, rose water, vanilla essence, almonds, pistachios, cheese, raisins, cinnamon, and sugar. Baked to a golden hue, Kunafa is a beloved dessert year-round in the UAE.

8. Basbousa

Basbousa, a semolina cake soaked in syrup and garnished with almonds, combines semolina flour, butter, sugar, lemon juice, yoghurt, and coconut, offering a simple yet satisfying sweet treat.

9. Ma'amoul

Ma'amoul pastries, filled with dates, pistachios, walnuts, almonds, figs, and other dry fruits, are widely enjoyed in Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine. These small shortbread pastries are a testament to the region's rich culinary traditions.

10. Umm Ali

Originating from the heart of Arabia, Umm Ali is a creamy pudding that rounds off Iftar meals perfectly. Its rich texture and flavor make it a must-try during Ramadan.

So, which one's your favourite?