“Ramadan is a month of reminding ourselves that less is more and that simplicity is not a deprivation – it’s a liberation.” – renowned Islamic speaker, Nouman Ali Khan
As the sun dips below the horizon during Ramadan, the call to Maghrib prayer signals a cherished moment – time to break the fast.
While the allure of lavish Ramadan buffets and trendy restaurants may tempt many, there is something profoundly comforting and meaningful about breaking the fast at home.
For many, home is where the heart – and the best iftar – truly is.
Over the years, Ramadan has become synonymous with abundance.
Across cities and towns, hotels and restaurants roll out extravagant buffet spreads, boasting everything from local delicacies to international cuisines.
The appeal is undeniable – imagine tables laden with grilled lamb, fragrant biryani, rich curries, and an array of colourful desserts.
Yet, beyond the allure of these grand feasts lies a growing sentiment: the quiet preference for a simple, intimate iftar at home.
At its core, Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink – it is a time for reflection, gratitude and family.
Breaking the fast at home fosters a sense of togetherness that a bustling restaurant cannot replicate.
There is an irreplaceable warmth in gathering around the dining table, sharing home-cooked dishes prepared with love.
For many, the kitchen becomes a space where memories are made.
The aroma of bubur lambuk simmering gently on the stove, the sizzle of dates being caramelised, and the familiar sound of the azan echoing through the air bring peace.
Preparing iftar together – cutting fruit for the wajib buah kurma (dates) or frying crispy cucur – creates a bond that commercial spaces cannot emulate.
In a world where life moves swiftly, these quiet moments of preparation and sharing remind us of what truly matters: family, faith and gratitude.
Ramadan is also a time to practise self-restraint and mindfulness.
Yet, the indulgence offered by Ramadan buffets often leads to the opposite.
With a seemingly endless variety of dishes, it is easy to overconsume, overshadowing the spiritual aspect of fasting.
Breaking the fast at home allows for a healthier and more intentional approach.
Home-cooked meals often use fresh, carefully selected ingredients and are prepared with health in mind.
Instead of processed, oily dishes commonly found at buffets, a homemade iftar can include nourishing soups, grilled proteins and fresh salads.
Moreover, when breaking the fast at home, there is greater control over portion sizes and food choices.
It encourages us to listen to our bodies, eat mindfully and avoid waste – a principle deeply rooted in Islamic teachings.
Another compelling reason many prefer breaking the fast at home lies in the financial aspect.
Ramadan buffets, while indulgent, often come with a hefty price tag.
In major cities, these spreads can range from RM80 to RM400 per person – a significant expense for many families.
For the same cost, a family could prepare several wholesome iftars at home.
The savings could also be redirected toward charitable acts – a key pillar of Ramadan.
Many families donate to those in need, embodying the spirit of sadaqah and fostering a sense of community.
During a time when the cost of living continues to rise, the simplicity of a home-cooked iftar offers both financial relief and spiritual enrichment.
Anyone who has experienced a Ramadan buffet during peak hours knows the scene well – long queues, crowded dining areas, and the pressure to “get your money’s worth”.
What should be a moment of calm reflection can quickly turn into a stressful affair.
At home, the atmosphere is markedly different.
There is no rush to secure a table or stand in line for food.
Instead, there is a quiet serenity – an opportunity to break the fast calmly, perform Maghrib prayers without hurry, and savour each bite without distraction.
For families with young children or elderly relatives, the home offers a more comfortable environment.
Children can break the fast at their own pace while elderly family members are spared the challenges of navigating crowded venues.
Ultimately, the beauty of Ramadan lies in its simplicity.
Whether it is a humble meal of dates and water or a spread of traditional favourites, breaking the fast at home allows us to cultivate gratitude for life’s simplest blessings.
It also aligns with the prophetic tradition (Sunnah), where simplicity in iftar is emphasised.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was reported to have broken his fast with dates and water – a reminder that even the simplest nourishment can be deeply fulfilling.
While there is no harm in enjoying an occasional iftar out, there is unmatched beauty in returning to the basics.
In a world that often celebrates excess, Ramadan calls us back to humility, compassion and reflection.
As the days of fasting continue, perhaps more will discover the quiet joy of a home-cooked iftar – the warmth of family, the blessings of simplicity, and the profound peace found within one’s home.
DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
