Ramadan Iftar BBQ — Recipes & Rubs for Iftar

Iftar is the time after sunset when you break your fast — and there's no better way to celebrate than with freshly grilled meat, aromatic herbs, and company around the BBQ. On this page, you'll find the best recipes, rub choices, and tips for an unforgettable iftar BBQ.

Why BBQ for iftar?

In many Middle Eastern, Moroccan, and Turkish cultures, grilling is deeply intertwined with the festive culture surrounding Ramadan. Lamb skewers, kofta, shawarma, and grilled vegetables — these are dishes that suit breaking the fast: nourishing, aromatic, and shared with family and friends.

The best BBQ recipes for iftar

  • Kofta — Moroccan minced meat skewers with cumin, coriander powder, and garlic. Quick to prepare and ideal for large groups
  • Adana Kebab — Turkish lamb skewer with chili flakes and sumac. Spicy, savory, and impressive
  • Mechoui — Moroccan roasted lamb, traditionally prepared low & slow. A feast dish for special evenings
  • Shawarma from the BBQ — chicken or lamb with the Shawarma dry rub, served with tahini and flatbread

Which rub suits iftar?

The Shawarma BBQ Rub is the most obvious choice — with cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and coriander, this rub is instantly at home in Middle Eastern cuisine. But the Jamaican Jerk rub (with allspice and ginger) and the Korean rub (with sesame seeds and gochugaru) also offer interesting flavor combinations that pair well with grilled lamb and chicken.

Halal & allergens

All rubs from The Rub Kitchen are free from pork and pork-related ingredients. View the complete overview of ingredients and allergens: BBQ Rub Allergen Overview. Also read more about specific ingredients: Our Ingredients — Pure Herbs.

Side dishes for iftar BBQ

Combine your grilled dishes with classic iftar side dishes:

  • Hummus — creamy and quick to make. Recipe: Homemade Hummus
  • Tabbouleh — fresh herb tabbouleh as a refreshing side dish. Recipe: Tabbouleh Recipe
  • Grilled bell peppers and zucchini with Shawarma rub
  • Tahini sauce — creamy sesame sauce. Recipe: Tahini Sauce Recipe

See also the complete overview: All BBQ Side Dishes.

Also read