Ramadan is the time for piety as well as strengthening faith, but it’s also a time for sharing meals. Even in the month of fasting, food plays an important role. It’s appreciated more than usual and is seen as a blessing and a celebration, and there is much joy in breaking bread together. Hence countless iftar parties occur every Ramadan, where family and friends can share a meal, laugh, chat and practice religious prayers together after sunset.
However, iftar parties needn’t be a parade of old-fashioned eats and ordinary décor. If you’re hosting one this Ramadan, here are some tips to help you set up a flawless iftar – from setting up the right food menu to mastering the art of tablescaping.
Spruce up your space
Spruce up your home with trinkets carrying Islamic motifs to create a theme-based ambiance. Cushion covers, lamps and upholstery in stars, crescent moon or floral prints work well on this occasion. It’s also an excellent time to upgrade your tablescape with those cool candle holders and lanterns you’ve been eyeing. To give your home a nice, lingering fragrance, fill up brass or marble bowls with fresh flowers such as jasmine buds and tuberoses. Aside from that, add fragrance with incense burners to encourage your guests to feel relaxed and welcome.
Focus on healthy meals
Since an iftar spread is the most important meal of the day, it’s necessary that we break our fasts and serve food that is healthy and nutritionally balanced. Opt for brown rice or whole grain noodles with fresh fish, plant-based proteins such as lentils and beans, wholesome salads, air-fried kebabs and other dishes that are satisfying yet nutritious. You can also twist the traditional iftar dishes like biryani and tomato rice to make them healthier. To cool things down, while soda and syrup drinks are obvious first choices, swap them for lemon-infused water with mint leaves and fresh fruit.
Don’t forget the dessert
No iftar is complete without something sweet! To make the iftar party a fun and extravagant one, this would be an ideal time to set up a high-tea trolley. Bring out an array of pickable snacks and bite-sized desserts that are a mix of traditional kuih and contemporary cakes, pudding or sandwiches. You can even ask your guests to bring their choice of unique desserts to share.
Indulge in wholesome activities
While prayers and breaking bread are crucial activities of iftar, it doesn’t mean it has to be a serious affair. After the day’s fasting, lighten up the mood and arrange for fun games to play, and of course, steaming hot cups of tea to go with. Another charming activity could be the recitation of the Quran, which is believed to bring more blessings and spiritual rewards. You can organise a group Quran recitation session after iftar, inviting your guests to read and reflect on the holy book together.
Give something to remember
There’s nothing sweeter than giving your guests a thoughtful token to remember the occasion with during iftar. They don’t have to be lavish splurges but thoughtful little items. Think something like spa vouchers, homemade treats, du’a books, or any small memorable gift they’ll remember you with. This will surely end the party on a beautiful note.
Images from Pinterest.
