10 Must Have Iftars In Ramadan

Ramadan is undoubtedly the best month in the Muslim calendar. It’s when all Muslims feel the closest to Islam but also, the meals, especially the ones that are only ever made in Ramadan, are something people wait for throughout the year. 

Sehri and Iftar are two meals Muslims have, right before starting their fast and right after ending the fast. Iftars are a very important part of Ramadan and what goes on the iftar spread every day is quite a decision to make. Hence, we have curated a list of ten must have foods that deserve to be on your iftar spread.

1. Pakoray

Nothing beats piping hot, fresh, crispy pakoray. They’re so versatile due to all the vegetables that you can make them with. The classics are make with potatoes and onions, sometimes spinach leaves, or a mix of all.

Another favourite amongst most are made with long chilies, often stuffed with tamarind pulp. A more niche kind of pakoray are chicken pakoray. They’re basically fried chicken pieces, coated in gramflour. No matter what kind you choose, it is important to have pakoray on your iftar table.

2. Fruit Chaat

Quite a controversial one, but we at Springs love us a good juicy fruit chaat. Everybody has their way of making it and now there are fruit chaat masalas made specifically for fruit chaat. Now whether you prefer to add bananas or not is up to you, but it is not to be debated that fruit chaat definitely is a must have in your iftar because apart from being delicious, it’s a great source of natural sugars and gives you instant energy after the whole day of fasting. 

3. Dates

Dates are commonly known for their religious significance since it is sunnah to break your fast with dates but did you know how nutritious they are? Dates contain several vitamins and minerals, in addition to fiber and antioxidants. You can have it by itself or make chocolate covered dates with them. You could also stuff them with nuts, coconut, cream or even nut butters like almond and peanut butter. 

4.  Chaat

Now it wouldn’t be fair to talk about fruit chaat and not mention the OG chaat. It's a ramadan staple, made with chickpeas, boiled potatoes, onions and tomatoes, chutneys, chaat masala and a crispy fried papri. You can enjoy it as an appetizer but its a whole meal in itself and definitely has to be on your iftar menu.

5. Dahi Baray

Dahi baray are specifically eaten in ramzan, especially in pakistan. They’re made with lentils and yogurt and come in different variations, both sweet and savoury. Alot of people add a spicy kick to the classic sweet dahi baray by adding masala on top for that sweet but savoury flavour. They’re also made with a tempering of garlic and some spices to make them savoury. In either cases, dahi baray are a must have and deserve all the attention.

6.  Bread Pockets

Crispy yet soft, stuffed with a creamy filling, bread pockets are a slightly different dish that should be a part of your iftar. They’re basically two bread pieces, flattened, cut into circles, filled with a creamy chicken mix, stuck together and then fried till golden and crispy. They’re super addictive and so easy to make. 

7.  Malpura

Malpura or Malpua is almost like a fried pancake, usually eaten with rabri. It’s slightly sweet and soft with crispy edges, making it the perfect dessert for your iftar table. 

8.  Wonton

Wontons are traditionally chinese dumplings that are usually steamed or boiled but in Pakistan we like to fry them. They’re filled with chicken mince and some simple chinese spices and wrapped with wonton wrappers or a classic samosa patti.

They’re then fried to make them super crispy and best part is they can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer so if they aren’t already in your list of iftars, it should now be.

9. Chicken Sticks

Chicken sticks are another ramzan staple that you and your family will love. They’re spicy chicken pieces that are stacked on top of each other on a wooden skewer and then coated in breading and fried. They’re high protein, spicy and a great option for iftar.

10. Samosa

How could we have ended the list without samosa? Nothing beats a hot, crispy samosa that is dipped in raita. Samosa is a pocket made with samosa patti, that is then filled with different kinds of fillings. Chicken, beef, potatoes or even vegetables. They’re fried till golden and eaten hot. Samosas are even made like desserts with a coconut and jaggery filling. No matter what kind you choose, samosas are a must have at your iftar table.

Ramadan is a time for reflection, togetherness, and delicious iftar meals. These must-have iftar items—from crispy pakoray to nutritious dates—bring both flavor and energy to your table. For a healthy Ramadan meal plan, balance indulgent treats with nutritious foods.

Choose high-fiber and protein-rich options for sehri like oats, yogurt, and eggs, while avoiding deep-fried and sugary foods. Eat smart, stay energized, and enjoy a fulfilling Ramadan!