New Delhi: Ramadan 2026 commenced on 19 February in India inviting Muslims to embrace fasting, prayer, and communal joy. As the sun sets, the iftar table transforms into a feast of tradition and flavour, where the first bite of dates revives the body after a day of roza. From crispy pakoras to hearty kebabs, these best iftari foods blend Indian and Middle Eastern influences, perfect for family gatherings or solo reflections. Whether you’re exploring street stalls in Old Delhi or cooking at home, discover famous picks like fruit chaat and shawarma that hydrate, energise, and delight—ideal for wellness-focused fasting in 2026.

Imagine the aroma of sizzling spices wafting through bustling markets as Maghrib azan echoes—this is iftar magic! Curated for beginners and enthusiasts, these top iftari snacks ensure balanced nutrition with proteins, fibres, and natural sugars to sustain you through taraweeh prayers and late-night chats.

1. Dates (Khajoor)

The timeless opener to iftar, dates provide instant energy with natural sugars and fibre, mimicking Prophet Muhammad’s tradition—pair with milk for ultimate hydration after a long roza in Delhi’s heat.​​

2. Fruit chaat

A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits like apples, bananas, and pomegranates tossed in chaat masala, lemon, and mint; refreshing, vitamin-packed, and light to ease digestion post-fast.​​

3. Pakoras

Crispy besan batter fritters with potatoes, onions, or peas, spiced with chillies and cumin—deep-fried perfection served hot with imli chutney, a street favourite for crunchy iftar vibes.

4. Samosas

Golden, flaky pastries stuffed with spiced potatoes, peas, or minced chicken/keema; each bite bursts with savoury flavours, making them an irresistible, shareable iftari snack at home or bazaars.​​

5. Seekh kebabs

Minced mutton or chicken skewers grilled over charcoal with onions, coriander, and garam masala; smoky, juicy, and protein-rich, ideal alongside rumali roti for a hearty Delhi-style iftar.

6. Chicken shawarma

Tender chicken marinated in yoghurt and spices, wrapped in pita with garlic sauce, pickles, and fries—a Middle Eastern twist popular in India, offering juicy layers for satisfying hunger quickly.

7. Haleem

Slow-cooked wheat, lentils, and meat stew blended smooth with ghee and fried onions; comforting and nutritious, this Hyderabadi gem fuels taraweeh with its warming, aromatic spices.​​

8. Falooda

Rose syrup-soaked vermicelli with milk, basil seeds, ice cream, and nuts—a cool, sweet finale that hydrates and indulges, blending Indian dessert traditions for joyful iftar closings.

9. Dahi bhallas: Soft lentil dumplings soaked in whipped yoghurt, topped with tamarind chutney, chaat masala, and sev; tangy, cooling, and probiotic-rich to soothe the stomach after fasting.​​

10. Chicken Biryani

Fragrant basmati rice layered with spiced chicken, saffron, and fried onions—a festive main that elevates iftar tables, providing carbs and proteins for sustained evening energy.​​

Embrace Ramadan 2026’s spirit by trying these best iftari foods—simple to prepare or grab from Delhi spots. They nourish body and soul, fostering cherished memories around the iftar mat.