Mother and son duo, Nora and Ryza, share their delicious vegan Ramadan recipes
About Us
Hello! We are Nora and Ryza, a dynamic mother and son duo passionate about veganism, sustainability, and sharing our culinary adventures on Instagram.
We first began by setting out to show friends and family the joy of vegan cooking, where we shared delicious plant-based vegan recipes, sparking a global community. Our humble start grew into an online network spanning Singapore and beyond.
Muslims – Our Role as Stewards of The Planet
As Muslims, our faith guides us to be conscientious stewards of the Earth and its inhabitants. While the concept of halal (permissible) versus haram (forbidden) often dominates discussions surrounding food, it is equally essential to consider the concept of tayyib - that which is good, pure, and wholesome.
In Islam, we are instructed to treat animals with kindness, compassion, and respect, and to stand firmly against injustice. Moreover, we are entrusted with the responsibility of preserving and protecting the environment, recognising it as a sacred trust from our Creator.
Veganism resonates deeply with our 'green deen' – our way of life informed by Islamic teachings that emphasise reverence for nature and all its creatures. By embracing a plant-based vegan lifestyle, we honour the signs of Allah (swt) manifested in the natural world and strive to minimise harm to the environment and its inhabitants.
The Holy Month of Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar that holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide, as it was during this time period where the holy Quran was sent down to guide to mankind. Muslims fast from dawn till dusk as one of the central tenets of this sacred month, symbolising self-discipline, purification, and empathy for those less fortunate.
Beyond abstaining from food and drink, Ramadan is a time for performing acts of charity, seeking forgiveness, and deepening one's connection with Allah through increased prayer and recitation of the Quran. The sense of unity and communal spirit during Ramadan is palpable, as families come together to break their fast at iftar, sharing delicious meals and heartfelt prayers.
Through these practices, Muslims seek to draw closer to their faith, strengthen their character, and cultivate a greater sense of gratitude and compassion for others. Ramadan serves as a reminder of the importance of self-reflection, mindfulness, and living in accordance with the values of Islam throughout the year.
Iftar and Suhoor
Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, carries spiritual importance as it signifies preparation for the day ahead. Muslims wake before dawn to cook and partake in Suhoor, nourishing their bodies and souls with wholesome foods and prayers, aligning themselves with the spiritual discipline of Ramadan.
Iftar, the evening meal to break the fast during Ramadan upon sunset, holds profound significance in Muslim tradition. It symbolises gratitude and community as families and friends gather to enjoy a variety of recipes for Ramadan. This communal gathering fosters a sense of unity and spiritual connection as individuals come together to break their fast and offer prayers of gratitude.
Breaking fast with dates and water, in accordance with the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), symbolises gratitude and humility before our Creator. Enhancing this tradition with a ‘green deen’ ethical iftar adds depth and meaning to our Ramadan customs.
Allow us to introduce you to two iftar recipes you can prepare ahead of time that will elevate your iftar experience and nourish your soul.
Vegan Ramadan Recipes
Vegan Bubur Suro Jawa (Javanese Rice Porridge)
Embark on a culinary journey to the straits of Java, Indonesia, with this hearty rice porridge dish bursting with six delectable accompaniments.
• Tahu Bumbu Kuning (Tofu and Vegetables in Coconut Gravy)
Savour the richness of fried tofu, carrots and long beans cooked in spices and coconut milk, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavours. It's gluten-free too!
• Bergedil (Fried Potato Cakes)
Delight in crispy potato fritters with a creamy center, a beloved side dish across Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. A perfect addition to your recipe collection of finger foods.
• Tempeh Kriuk Pedas (Spiced Crispy Tempeh)
Spice up your palate with this popular Indonesian dish featuring crispy tempeh infused with tantalising flavours. A healthy protein-rich boost to your meals.
• Serunding (Spiced Coconut Floss)
Elevate your meal with this fiery shredded coconut condiment, made with simple ingredients that add a burst of heat and umami to every bite.
• Kacang Goreng Manis (Sweet and Spicy Peanuts)
Enjoy the irresistible crunch of sweet and spicy nuts, perfectly complementing the savoury elements of the meal. Don't be surprised if you can't stop eating this snack!
• Telur Dadar (Chickpea Omelette)
Experience the goodness of a savoury omelette, veganized with chickpea flour for a protein-packed twist. Another healthy protein boost to your meal.
• Bubur Nasi Perang (Brown Rice Porridge)
Cosy up to a bowl of tasty and filling whole grain brown rice porridge, a comforting iftar dish to help you stay nourished, best served warm.
Pandan Cheesecake Parfait
Dive into the enchanting world of flavours with our Vegan Pandan Cheesecake Parfait! Indulge in delicious layers of sweet fragrant pandan custard and creamy cheesecake mousse dessert, creating a symphony of flavours that will leave you craving more.
These vegan ramadan recipes not only celebrate the diversity of flavours and cultural heritage but also embody the principles of compassion, sustainability, and nourishment that lie at the heart of our Islamic values.
Our goal is not just about sharing recipes and dishes; it is a testament to our commitment to living in harmony with our faith, our values, and the world around us.
"Embracing veganism has deepened our connection to Islam, guiding us towards a lifestyle rooted in compassion, sustainability, and health. It prompts us to reflect on our food choices, the products we use, and their impact on others and the environment. We aspire to inspire others to embark on a similar journey."
Ryza @theveganmumnson and Nora @javanese_vegan.
The views expressed by our bloggers are not necessarily the views of The Vegan Society.
