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Ramadan foods: Nutrient-rich Ethiopian cuisine

Dubai - UAE residents don't have to travel all the way to Ethiopia to try injera or other traditional foods

Talking about different must-have food items for Iftars, we may say that hummus is a must-have dish in Arab Iftars, while Pakistanis and Indians cannot forget to add samosas to their iftar menu. But, what are some of the most important food dishes in African countries, specifically Ethiopia?
The 'injera' bread, made with teff flour, is the most popular food for Ethiopians. It's a flat bread with a spongy texture. It's gluten-free and is eaten with any kind of dishes that are being served.
UAE residents don't have to travel all the way to Ethiopia to try injera or other traditional foods. There is an Ethiopian restaurant in Palm Jumeirah, called Gursha, and they know exactly what their culture is all about.
"Ethiopian culture is heavily inclined toward a grain and seed-based diet, and the Muslims in Ethiopia tend to end their fast with a healthy, nutritious lentil soup made with red lentils, celery and curd, flavoured by cardamom and mitmita for a truly balanced meal.
Lentils are a rich source of nutrients, and go well with samosas and spring rolls. These are available in a majority of households," a statement from the restaurant said. "It's common to begin an Iftar with a creamy soup as it would ideally be a great starter that provides the right amount of water content and dietary supplements usually lost during the time of the fast.
Lentil soup is quite vegetarian friendly, which goes well with diet-conscious Muslims and is a refreshing change from starting an iftar feast with roasted meats."
sarwat@khaleejtimes.com