Nadiya hussain shares ramadan traditions & cookbook inspiration

A familiar and beloved time: ramadan's significance

Chef and author Nadiya Hussain beautifully describes Ramadan as “like an old friend who you’ve known forever.” During this holiest month in the Islamic calendar, she reflects on the profound sense of connection and familiarity it brings. This sentiment is central to her cookbook, Rooza, a culinary journey through the Islamic world inspired by Ramadan and Eid celebrations. Nadiya emphasizes the joy and passion she poured into creating a resource that was previously missing.

The meaning of 'rooza' and a shift in the kitchen

The term 'Rooza' literally translates to 'fasting,' and it’s the name many South Asian Muslims, including Nadiya’s family, use for Ramadan. For someone whose life revolves around Food, this period brings a unique shift. “My kitchen is usually alive and kicking, but now it’s as quiet as it could ever be,” Nadiya shares. The focus shifts to sustenance, with a single main meal a day during iftar (breaking the fast) and a pre-dawn meal called suhoor.

Nutritious meals: balancing protein, carbs, and fat

Regardless of when Ramadan falls – it shifts annually based on the lunar calendar – Nadiya prioritizes balancing each meal with protein, carbs, and fat. While her mother traditionally prepared classic dishes like curry, rice, chicken, and fried fish, Nadiya embraces a more modern approach, catering to her children’s preferences. She fondly recalls a humorous incident where they requested rice and curry for suhoor, a decision quickly regretted after a day of indigestion!

Culinary creativity and waste reduction

Nadiya’s cooking philosophy emphasizes creativity and minimizing waste. She often explores different cuisines to utilize available ingredients. This approach directly inspired the creation of her cookbook, Rooza. To streamline her time in the kitchen, she preps extensively, roasting and freezing large batches of onions before Ramadan begins. A key benefit is her intuitive understanding of cooking, relying on visual cues rather than constant tasting.

Family traditions and the joy of shared experience

Ramadan isn’t solely about fasting; it’s about community and spiritual growth. Children, the sick, those who are menstruating, pregnant, or breastfeeding are exempt from fasting but still participate in other acts of worship, charity, and education. Nadiya highlights the sense of peace that comes from knowing that millions around the world are sharing in the same experience, fostering a feeling of solidarity and shared purpose.

Eid celebrations and a culinary feast

As Ramadan nears its end, anticipation builds for the Eid celebrations. Nadiya plans a lavish feast, incorporating treats like fresh brioche and shemai (vermicelli noodles toasted in ghee and simmered in milk, sugar, and spices). Her menu also includes Bengali chicken korma with eggs, savory and sweet samosas, and, of course, one of her signature cakes. With the celebrations, her kitchen will once again bustle with activity, marking the end of Ramadan and the departure of this cherished tradition for another year. Nadiya’s latest cookbook, Quick Comforts, is available now, alongside her belovedRooza.

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