While counting down the minutes to breaking their fast, knowing that they must pick from a spread of food at the Ramadhan buffet line can be a little overwhelming for some hungry diners. Help your diners along when you serve up some of these delicious, sweet and savoury appetisers before they tackle the mains.
Onde onde
Here’s a popular treat made from glutinous rice and tapioca flour, pandan leaves extract and gula melaka, then rolled in desiccated coconut mixed with sea salt. On the outside, onde onde is slightly salty but absolutely tender with bursts of sweet, fragrant gula melaka on the inside!
Cucur Udang
This savoury snack is a Malaysian street food favourite. Made primarily from small prawns and fried doughy batter, it works well as an appetiser. Cucur udang can be eaten plain or dipped in ketchup and chili sauce, and is a great way for your diners to calm their hunger before diving into the countless main courses.
Hummus
Hummus is a Levantine side dish from the Middle East and is a common sight on the Middle Eastern Iftar spread. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans, this delicious blend of chickpeas and tahini contains high amount of protein, fibre, iron and vitamins. Hummus is delicious accompanied with breadsticks, pita and toast.
Satay
Texas has barbeque, Malaysia has satay. Also known as sate, these marinated meat skewers are roasted over a charcoal fire and have enjoyed a reputation as Malaysia’s favourite snack for decades. Made with meat cubes or slices, the meat in satays could come from chicken, mutton, beef, fish and even rabbit! Get your diners started with these protein munchies before the big feast.
Cekodok Pisang
Simple, sweet and so good to eat, these deep fried mashed banana fritters are also known in Malay as jemput jemput. Simply made with all-purpose flour, mashed bananas and sugar, these banana balls are fantastic when dipped in sweet coconut milk or gula melaka syrup.
Dates Smoothie Bowl
Call it an appetiser or a dessert, this smoothie bowl comprising of dates, spices, frozen banana, coconut flakes and chia seeds packs a healthy punch to end your fast. This cold, refreshing and healthy bowl is perfect for weight-conscious diners craving for something easy to digest.
