Iftar Specials: Creative Takes on Falooda & Other Cooling Desserts

Ramazan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, starts with the appearance of the crescent moon and continues for 29 or 30 days, culminating in Eid-ul-Fitr. It is a holy period celebrated by Muslims across the globe through fasting from sunrise to sunset, performing prayer, introspection, and charity. The fast is broken at sunset with Iftar, a meal that unites families and communities to express gratitude and sustenance.

Iftar begins the traditional way with dates and water, followed by a selection of energizing foods and hydrating liquids to revive the body after extensive fasting. In India, cooling drinks, fruit-based sweets, and milk-based desserts are an essential part of post-fast food. Falooda, the popular dish with Persian roots, has been a Ramazan staple for centuries. Prepared using vermicelli, basil seeds, milk, and ice cream, it is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. There are, of course, several other cool desserts that can complement the Iftar time. Below are 8 innovative Falooda variations and other cool treats to make your Ramazan nights even more special.

Mango & Coconut Falooda

As a tropical variation, replace normal milk with coconut milk and alternate layers of fresh mango puree. Vermicelli cooked and soaked basil seeds provide depth, with a scoop of mango ice cream taking it to the next level. Slivered almonds and toasted coconut flakes as garnish make for an exotic, cooling dessert that fuses creamy and fruity aspects beautifully.

Rose & Chia Pudding

This no-fuss dessert is made by soaking chia seeds overnight in rose-syrup-infused almond milk. By Iftar, the mixture thickens to a creamy pudding. Garnish with crushed pistachios, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey for an aromatic, nutrient-dense dessert that quenches and satisfies without being heavy.

Lychee & Vanilla Falooda

Add the tender sweetness of lychee and the rich flavor of vanilla to your Falooda. Puree lychees to a smooth paste and mix with cold milk before layering with soaked basil seeds, cooked vermicelli, and a vanilla ice cream scoop. Rose syrup drizzle and chopped cashews bring in an air of sophistication to this cool dessert.

Kulfi Falooda Trifle

Mix the decadence of kulfi with the lightness of Falooda by stacking the two in a glass. Begin with a crushed cardamom-flavored kulfi base, add rose-milk-soaked vermicelli seeds and basil, and repeat the layers. End with slivered almonds and strands of saffron. This dessert marries creamy, chewy, and crunchy textures into an overindulgent treat.

Watermelon & Mint Granita

This refreshing dessert is naturally hydrating and ideal for hot summer nights. Mix pureed watermelon with lemon juice and honey, and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes to form a granita. It's a delicate, icy dessert that disolves in the mouth. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and pomegranate seeds for additional bursts of freshness.

Fig & Almond Kheer

For a nutritious dessert, prepare a slow-cooked kheer with almond milk and blended figs. The natural sweetness of figs reduces the need for added sugar, while cardamom enhances the aroma. Chopped almonds provide a rich finish, making this dish a nourishing yet light addition to your Iftar table.

Pineapple & Basil Cooler

A liquid dessert featuring pineapple juice with soaked basil seeds is a cool-down treat. Pineapple's slight tanginess will complement basil seeds' minute crunch. It's best served chilled with mint leaves and lime wedges squeezed for added refreshing water content. This is an improved version of conventional sherbets.

Strawberry Yogurt Phirni

Phirni, a traditional dessert, gets a modern twist with this recipe, which combines slow-cooked rice pudding with fresh strawberries and yogurt for a light yet creamy dessert. The sweetness of the strawberries is balanced by the tanginess of the yogurt, and the chopped almonds provide a nice crunch. Chill before serving for a refreshing and healthy finish to your Iftar meal.