Ramadan BBQ Recipes — Iftar from the Grill
Deel
Iftar — breaking the fast at sunset — is a moment of togetherness, gratitude, and good food. The BBQ is perfect for this: large gatherings, rich flavors, and a festive outdoor atmosphere. Below you will find the best BBQ recipes for a Ramadan iftar.
What to consider for a Ramadan BBQ?
- Halal meat — use only halal-certified meat
- No alcohol in marinades — replace beer or wine with pomegranate juice, yogurt, or lemon juice
- Generous quantities — after a day of fasting, guests eat more; count on 300–400g of meat per person
- Quick preparations — skewers and chops are ready quickly, ideal when guests are hungry
Recipe 1: BBQ Kofta
Kofta — seasoned minced meat skewers — are a classic at the Ramadan iftar. Mix lamb mince with onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. Form around metal skewers and grill for 10–12 minutes over direct heat. See our extensive Moroccan kofta recipe.
Recipe 2: BBQ Shawarma Chicken
Marinate chicken breast or chicken thighs in a mix of cumin, turmeric, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon juice. Grill over indirect heat until the core temperature reaches 75°C. Serve with pita, tzatziki, and grilled vegetables. See our shawarma BBQ recipe.
Recipe 3: Lamb Chops with Jamaican Jerk Rub
Lamb chops cook quickly (10 minutes) and pair perfectly with warm, spicy flavors. Season with a dry rub based on allspice, cinnamon, thyme, and chili. See our recipe for lamb chops on the BBQ.
Recipe 4: Adana Kebab
Adana kebab is a Turkish lamb skewer with red pepper paste and spices — spicy, smoky, and perfect for the grill. See our Adana kebab recipe.
Recipe 5: Grilled Vegetables as a Side Dish
Combine your meat with grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Season with a dry rub for extra flavor. See our recipes for grilled bell peppers and grilled zucchini.
Tips for a Successful Ramadan BBQ
- 🕒 Start lighting 45 minutes before iftar — so coals are up to temperature
- 🍽️ Serve dates and water first when breaking the fast
- 🥑 Prepare sauces and salads in advance — so you don't have to cook during iftar
- 👥 Count on 300–400g of raw meat per person after a day of fasting