8 Freezer Friendly Meals for Ramadan

I remember my Ramadan weekdays several years ago. Chaotic! After work, by the time I was home, it was pretty close to iftar(breaking the fast) time. Instead of having some quiet 5-10 minutes sitting by the table to pray and wait for iftar time, I would be going around the kitchen frantically to prepare a meal. It was something that needed to be improved and changed. These days, I am into cooking now before the holy month starts and eat during the month of Ramadan. Off course I cook some during the month, but not as hysterically as before.

If you are also into the “cook now, eat later” philosophy, I have a list of 8 meals for you to choose from. As a matter of fact, these freezer friendly meals can be made ahead any time of the year not just for Ramadan.

P.S. While we are in the subject of Ramadan, look through our Ramadan collection for Ramadan decor and gifts.

1. Tehari

Rice and beef are some of the easiest items that freezes very well. Although any kind of rice can be frozen into individual portions, our favorite for Ramadan is Tehari. This aromatic rice with beef is delicious, filling and has a good balance of carb and protein. Freeze individual portion or family portion in airtight container or ziplock bags.

Thaw the rice in refrigerator overnight or on your kitchen countertop for about 3-4 hours and warm in a non-stick pan on stovetop. Warming on the stovetop gives the rice a fresher taste than warming in the microwave. You can serve tehari just with a side of quick salad, so no cooking for that day!

 

 

2. Haleem

Wholesome, rich in protein and easily digestible haleem is popular in many homes in the Indian subcontinent and Middle East. Known as harees in the Middle East, hearty piping hot haleem makes a wholesome iftar and dinner during the month of Ramadan.

3. Beef Curry
Freeze in container or ziplock bags. Beef curry is extremely easy to freeze, thaw, warm and serve.  And beef curry is very versatile that you can serve is with plain rice, naan, and pulao during iftar.

4. Lentil Soup
Soups are great to break the fast. Soups provide the nutrition you need and helps regaining the water body needs after a long day of fasting. This delicious Middle Eastern Lentil Soup can be frozen in airtight container. I usually use glass container with a tight lid. Make sure to leave some space in the container on top as the liquid expands in the freezer. When ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave.

5. Chapri
We love breakfast for dinner. These savory pancakes are perfect iftar for us sometimes. If you like you can serve along side a hearty omelette and fruits. These delicious pancakes are great during suhoor too. Make a big stack the weekend before Ramadan starts, and freeze in airtight ziplock bags. Warm in the microwave to 50 seconds and they are ready for savoring.

6. Dum Kabab

This aromatic kabab retains all the natural aromas even after freezing, thawing and reheating. Make sure the kababs are completely thawed before reheating. Great as sides with rice during iftar or in sandwiches at suhoor.

 

Mediterranean Slices
Puff pastry provides endless possibilities and I always have puff pastry in my freezer. this Mediterranean slices are easy to put together. I use kale pesto but any other good quality store-bought pesto will do just fine.

 

Shepherd’s Pie
My husband is a big fan of shepherd’s pie. This no fuss shepher’s pie is quick and easy to make and freeze. I add extra veggies such as green peas, celery, corn, etc. If you add extra veggies make sure to adjust seasoning.

 

I hope you’ll find something that you like. Whether you are making some extras before Ramadan starts or making extras during the holy month to freeze and consume later, these are all no fuss delicious and nutritious meals.