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A Taste of Japan for Iftar to Break Your Fast in Style
Breaking the fast with something sweet is a common practice during iftar, and while dates are a popular choice, there are many other options to explore. If you’re looking to add a Japanese touch to your iftar spread, consider trying these three traditional foods and drinks.
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Halal Cream Daifuku
Halal cream daifuku is a popular choice among halal Japanese sweets. This chewy mochi dessert is filled with sweet cream that provides a nice satisfaction after a day of fasting, available in four different flavors: strawberry, matcha, cafe au lait, and mango.
The combination of the doughy mochi and the creamy filling is sure to boost your energy levels and prepare you for the Maghrib prayer.
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Amazake
Amazake is a sweet traditional Japanese drink that is perfect for moistening a dry throat after a long day of fasting. This healthy drink is rich in metabolism-boosting digestive enzymes, vitamin B, and nine essential amino acids which help promote healthy skin and hair.
Some people may be hesitant to try it due to its name being associated with “sake,” but the amazake made from 100% rice is completely halal and does not contain alcohol.
Amazake made from 100% rice
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Zenzai/Oshiruko
Zenzai or oshiruko is a traditional Japanese sweet soup that is enjoyed year-round, particularly during the winter months. This dessert soup is made with sweet red bean paste, boiled with sugar and water to create a thick, velvety texture.
Served in a small bowl with a few pieces of mochi, the warm, sweet soup, and chewy mochi create a comforting and satisfying combination that’s perfect for iftar.
The sweet taste of the soup and the mochi will also make you feel full for longer.
Zenzai and oshiruko are both traditional Japanese sweet soups that contain sweet red bean paste and mochi. However, there are some regional differences between the two.
In the Kansai region of Japan, oshiruko refers to a smooth red bean soup, while zenzai refers to soups made with whole beans or with a coarser texture. In contrast, in the Kanto region of Japan, which includes Tokyo, oshiruko refers to red bean soup of any texture.
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These three Japanese traditional foods and drinks offer a unique and delicious way to break your fast during iftar. Halal cream daifuku, amazake, and zenzai/oshiruko are all great options to add to your iftar spread and provide a satisfying and tasty way to break your fast.
