We are nearing the end of our Ramadan for 2024 and as we prepare to bring this spiritual journey to a close it is important to consider how we will continue to uphold our spiritual glow and values as life returns to normal.

Ramadan is a period where our spiritual awareness is heightened and this often brings out the best in us (when we are not hangry). We feel connected to the Almighty God and this brings us closer to him and others. In doing so, we become more compassionate and thoughtful toward others, even those outside of our religion.

While this is wonderful, we must do our utmost to uphold these values as best we can and for as long as we can. Perhaps it is inevitable that the general flow of life will divert our attention away from our spiritual selves at least in part, but that is why we practice Ramadan every year and pray 5 times a day – to keep us connected to God and spiritually aware. 

In this article, we will share some valuable insight about the festival of Ramadan and we will discuss the lessons we learn from disconnecting from our regular eating habits for a while. We also include a lovely recipe to enjoy so you are prepared and blessed with a wonderful treat when you return to your normal eating patterns. 

Let’s look at what Ramadan is and what it means to the Islamic community worldwide. 

What is Ramadan

Ramadan commemorates the revelation of the Qu’ran to the Prophet Mohammed (may peace be upon him). This moment, which is said to have taken place on ‘the night of power’ (“Laylat al-Qadr”) is considered sacred to the Islamic faith and it is honoured through abstinence of food and sexual activity between sunrise and sunset. 

The festival of Ramadan begins upon the sighting of the crescent moon, normally one night after a new moon. The date changes each year because Ramadan follows the Islamic calendar, which is based upon the lunar cycle – the moon, rather than the Gregorian calendar, which is based upon the sun. This means that Ramadan normally begins 10 days earlier each following year. In 2024, Ramadan began on March 10th.

Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?

The ritual of Ramadan is explained in Chapter 2, Verse 185 of the Quran, which says:

“And whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, a number of other days”.

“Allah desires for your ease; He desires not hardship for you; and that you should complete the period, and that you should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that perhaps you may be thankful.”

It is believed that God revealed the Qu’Ran to the prophet Mohammed (may peace be upon him) so that we may be guided. Part of that guidance requires followers of Islam to acknowledge acceptance of God’s guidance and rule and we do that through abstinence. 

What are the benefits of fasting during Ramadan? 

Aside from pleasing God, there are several benefits to participating in the annual fasting ritual. These include being more spiritually aware, having camaraderie within the Islamic community, feeling compassionate towards others, and having a greater appreciation for food and the suffering of others less fortunate than ourselves in regular life. 

Several health advantages that include weight loss, increased insulin sensitivity, increased growth hormone production, hormone regulation, gut health improvement, reduced inflammation, and cell regeneration, also come from sustained fasting periods. 

How to greet someone celebrating Ramadan

There are two common phrases used to greet fellow believers during Ramadan. They are: ‘Ramadan Mubarak’, which means ‘Blessed Ramadan’, and ‘Ramadan Kareem’, which is interpreted as ‘Generous Ramadan’. Both originate from the Arabic language.

The celebration of Eid al-Fitr  

At the end of Ramadan each year there is the “festival of breaking the fast”. This festival celebration is called Eid al-Fitr and it is a big celebration filled with food, prayer and time with loved ones. Donating to charity and those who are less fortunate form a big part of the celebrations. 

The festival lasts up to 3 days and is celebrated by Islamic followers all over the world.

Halal Origins wants you to get the most out of your celebrations, so we offer this delightful lamb curry recipe to help you get started. It is guaranteed to nourish and refresh you and it is the perfect way to end your fast and begin the next chapter of your spiritual journey. 

Lamb and chickpea curry – a middle-eastern glory 

Ingredients

  • 500g lamb shoulder or leg of lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes, or buy diced versions
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander seed, toasted and ground
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp Aleppo pepper (or ½ tsp red pepper flakes)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp grated nutmeg
  • 1 (400g) can chopped tomatoes
  • 1 (400g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup vegetable or lamb stock
  • ½ cup dried apricots, roughly chopped
  • ½ cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro and mint, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are brown on all sides.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and cook until they have softened, or roughly 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, Aleppo pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to release their magnificent aroma.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes, chickpeas, vegetable stock, and apricots to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.
  5. Once the lamb is tender, stir in the toasted almonds and season with salt to taste.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and mint before serving.

For the Middle Eastern Twist

Spices: This recipe uses a blend of warm spices common in Middle Eastern cuisine, like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon. Aleppo pepper adds a touch of smoky heat, but you can substitute red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Dried Apricots: Apricots add a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the savoury lamb and chickpeas. You can also use other dried fruits like dates, raisins, or prunes.

Toasted Almonds: Toasted almonds add a nice textural contrast and a nutty richness to the curry. Other options include cashews or walnuts.

Fresh Herbs: A final flourish of fresh cilantro and mint adds a burst of freshness and a signature Middle Eastern flavour.

Tips

  1. Serve this curry with fluffy basmati rice or naan bread.
  2. You can use boneless, skinless lamb stew meat instead of lamb shoulder or leg.
  3. If you don’t have dried apricots, you can add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
  4. For a richer flavour, you can substitute lamb stock for the vegetable stock.
  5. Adjust the amount of Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.

Final Thoughts

Halal Origins would like to take this opportunity to wish you Eid Mubarak and a spiritual journey without challenge. We wish you good fortune, and kindness and may your every endeavour be blessed by the Almighty God. We remind you to stay spiritually vigilant and to continue to show kindness to others, especially those in need of help, for whom you should give generously.

We hope you enjoy our delicious and fragrant Lamb and Chickpea Curry with your loved ones.

Eid Mubarak!