Iftar Delights: Traditional Dishes from Africa for Breaking Your Fast
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
After a long day of fasting, the moment of iftar is one of joy, relief, and gratitude. Across Africa, Muslims break their fast with a blend of nutritious and flavorful dishes that not only replenish energy but also reflect the rich culinary heritage of the continent. From hearty stews to sweet treats, here’s a look at some of the most beloved iftar delicacies enjoyed across Africa.
1. Nigeria: Kunu, Masa & Miyan Kuka
In Nigeria, especially in the northern Hausa and Fulani communities, iftar begins with dates and water, followed by nutrient-rich dishes that restore strength after fasting.
🍛 Miyan Kuka: A thick, green soup made from baobab leaves, often served with tuwo shinkafa (rice pudding).
🥞 Masa: Fluffy rice pancakes, sometimes drizzled with honey or eaten with spicy sauce.
🥤 Kunu: A millet-based drink, rich in energy and perfect for hydration.
💡 Fun Fact: In many Hausa homes, breaking the fast is a communal event, with large platters shared among family members.
Ngalakh
2. Senegal & The Gambia: Lakh & Café Touba
In Senegal and The Gambia, iftar—known as ndogou—is a social event where families, friends, and even strangers gather to eat together.
🥣 Lakh: A creamy millet porridge often served with peanut butter or yogurt.
☕ Café Touba: A strong, spiced coffee infused with Guinea pepper, giving it a bold and aromatic taste.
🍪 Ngalakh: A sweet dish made from millet, baobab fruit, and peanut paste.
💡 Fun Fact: In Senegal, it is customary to share ndogou with neighbors, ensuring that no one breaks their fast alone.
3. Somalia: Canjeero & Sambusa
Somali iftar traditions combine sweet and savory flavors to provide the body with much-needed nutrients after a day of fasting.
🥞 Canjeero: A soft, spongy pancake similar to Ethiopian injera but slightly sweeter.
🥟 Sambusa: Crispy, triangular pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables.
🍵 Shaah Somali: A spiced tea infused with cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
💡 Fun Fact: In many Somali households, bananas are eaten with almost every meal, including rice and stews during iftar.
Sambusa
4. Egypt & Sudan: Ful Medames & Karkadeh
North African Muslims break their fast with simple yet nourishing dishes that have been enjoyed for centuries.
🥘 Ful Medames: A dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, topped with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
🌺 Karkadeh: A refreshing hibiscus drink, served cold to cool down after a hot day.
🥖 Aish Baladi: Egyptian flatbread, used to scoop up delicious stews.
💡 Fun Fact: Fanoos lanterns are a big part of Ramadan decorations in Egypt, lighting up streets and homes during iftar.
5. Ethiopia: Shorba & Injera
Ethiopian Muslims enjoy iftar with a mix of protein-packed dishes and flavorful spices.
🍲 Shorba: A rich lentil or barley soup, providing warmth and energy.
🍛 Injera & Doro Wat: The famous sourdough flatbread served with spicy chicken stew.
🍹 Telba: A nutritious flaxseed drink known for its health benefits.
💡 Fun Fact: Ethiopian iftar gatherings often include shared platters, reinforcing the importance of community.
Viazi Karai
6. Kenya & Tanzania (Swahili Coast): Viazi Karai & Uji
On the Swahili coast, Ramadan nights are filled with the aroma of deep-fried snacks and fragrant coconut dishes.
🥔 Viazi Karai: Fried potatoes coated in a spiced batter, served with tangy chutney.
🍛 Mchuzi wa Samaki: A coconut-based fish curry, served with rice or ugali.
🥣 Uji: A smooth, porridge-like drink made from millet or sorghum.
💡 Fun Fact: In Zanzibar and Mombasa, night markets pop up during Ramadan, offering special iftar treats.
7. Mali & Guinea: Moni & Tigadèguèna
In West Africa, iftar meals focus on sustaining foods that replenish energy for the next day’s fast.
🥣 Moni: A warm millet porridge often mixed with sugar, milk, or baobab fruit.
🍛 Tigadèguèna: A rich peanut stew served with rice or fufu.
🍵 Ginger Juice: A refreshing and slightly spicy drink enjoyed at iftar.
💡 Fun Fact: Malian families serve elders first, showing deep respect for age and wisdom.
Ginger Juice
8. South Africa (Cape Malay Muslim Traditions): Koeksisters & Biryani
South Africa’s Cape Malay Muslim community has a unique fusion of Asian and African flavors.
🍛 Cape Malay Biryani: A fragrant rice dish with meat, potatoes, and saffron.
🍩 Koeksisters: Syrup-soaked, twisted doughnuts, perfect for a sweet treat after fasting.
☕ Boeka Tea: A spiced tea served with dates and dried fruits.
💡 Fun Fact: The term “boeka” (from the Dutch word for "breaking fast") is used in South Africa to refer to iftar meals.
The Spirit of Ramadan: More Than Just Food
Across Africa, iftar is not just about eating—it’s about community, gratitude, and reflection. Whether it’s the Hausa mai wake drumming to wake people up for suhur, the Somali tradition of breaking the fast with bananas, or the Swahili street iftar gatherings, Ramadan in Africa is a beautiful blend of faith and culture.
🌙 What’s your favorite African iftar dish? Let us know in the comments!