Sweets and more to celebrate Eid al Fitr

It’s been confirmed: Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on 20 March this year and Muslims around the world will mark the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting and prayer. Food is at the forefront to celebrate the end of Ramadan fasting. The foods eaten vary depending on the culture of the local celebrants, but sweets are an important aspect no matter where Eid feasts happen. BBC’s Good Food provides us with more than 40 Eid sweets recipes that are perfect for the holiday but delicious any time.

Different regions highlight different recipes: Baklava is popular in the Middle East while carrot halwa is enjoyed in northern India. Another Middle Eastern favorite is maamoul, a semolina cookie dough filled with nuts or dates and lightly dusted with icing sugar. Other traditional desserts include sheer khurma, gulab jamun, cham cham, and barfi. Many types of puddings/custards also grace the table at Eid celebrations around the world.

In addition to wonderful desserts, traditional mains and sides are enjoyed during the holiday. CBC brings us 32 recipes for a “big, beautiful” feast, and Taste of Home offers 25 additional Eid al-Fitr recipes. Not to be outdone by either of those sites, Food & Wine boasts 33 celebratory recipes, and for the biggest selection head over to Food Network, which is highlighting 45 delicious recipes.