Ideas for economical and delicious Ramadan dinners

Ramadan is a month of generosity and blessings, and we all love gathering with family and friends around a rich iftar table. However, hosting iftar gatherings can be quite expensive without proper planning. That's why, in Dalili Medical, I'll share some smart tips and tricks to help you host the perfect Ramadan gathering without spending too much!

 Smart Ways to Save Money on Hosting a Gathering

  1. Set Your Budget First
    Before planning your gathering, decide on a fixed budget for food, drinks, and desserts. This will help you avoid overspending.

  2. Plan the Menu Wisely
    Focus on affordable and filling dishes like stuffed vegetables, chicken instead of beef, and fried potatoes as a side.
    Use ingredients you already have at home to avoid unnecessary purchases.
    Cook reasonable portions to prevent food waste.

  3. Buy in Bulk
    If you're hosting multiple gatherings, buy staple ingredients like rice, sugar, flour, and frozen meat in bulk. Bulk purchases are often much cheaper.

  4. Make Everything at Home Instead of Buying Ready-Made

    • Soups? Super easy to make with just water and spices.
    • Ramadan drinks? Prepare them at home instead of buying expensive ready-made ones.
    • Desserts? Try making qatayef and kunafa yourself—you’ll save almost half the cost!
  5. Choose Simple Side Dishes
    Instead of preparing a table full of expensive dishes, go for budget-friendly sides like:
    ✔ Green salad or fattoush.
    ✔ Fried or mashed potatoes.
    ✔ Vermicelli rice instead of pricey basmati rice.

  6. Use Cheaper Alternatives to Expensive Meats

    • Chicken is cheaper than beef and can be used in delicious meals like grilled chicken, chicken with potatoes, or chicken fattah.
    • Fish like mullet and mackerel are affordable and tasty options.
    • Chicken liver and gizzards can be used in soups or as a side dish.
  7. Prepare Food a Day in Advance to Save Time and Money
    Get things ready the night before to make cooking easier and cut costs:
    ✔ Marinate the chicken or meat for better flavor and quicker cooking.
    ✔ Stuff the vegetables for stuffed dishes in advance and cook them on the day of the gathering.
    ✔ Prepare desserts and juices ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

  8. Use Medium-Sized Plates
    People eat with their eyes first! Using medium-sized plates instead of large ones helps control portions and reduce food waste.

  9. Share the Meal Preparation with Guests
    It’s completely okay to ask guests to bring something small, like a drink, a salad, or even a dessert. This lightens your load and reduces costs.

  10. Save Leftovers Instead of Throwing Them Away
    If there’s leftover food, store it in the freezer and use it in the following days.
    Leftover chicken or meat can be repurposed into samosa fillings or delicious sandwiches.

Affordable Main Dishes for Ramadan Gatherings

Hosting a gathering doesn’t have to be expensive to feel special. The key is choosing budget-friendly, filling, and delicious recipes. Here’s a great idea for a Ramadan main dish that will save you money while impressing your guests!

. Chicken and Potato Tray Bake 

A budget-friendly, easy-to-make meal that’s satisfying and packed with flavor without breaking the bank.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs (or 1 whole chicken cut into 4 pieces)
  • 3 medium potatoes, sliced into rounds
  • 2 large onions, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups tomato juice
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp thyme (optional)
  • 1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onions and garlic in oil until softened.
  2. Add the tomato juice and spices, then let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Arrange the potato slices in a baking dish and place the chicken on top.
  4. Pour the sauce over everything and cover the dish with foil.
  5. Bake at 180°C for 1 hour, then remove the foil and let it brown.
  6. Serve with bread or vermicelli rice.

 Cost-effective and packed with flavor! The chicken turns out tender and absorbs all the rich spices, making it a perfect dish for gatherings.

 Budget-Friendly Chicken or Beef Fattah 

Fattah is a luxurious and satisfying dish, and you can make it with chicken instead of beef to save money while keeping it delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boiled and shredded chicken thighs
  • 3 cups white rice
  • 2 loaves of toasted pita bread
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp vinegar
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter or ghee

Instructions:

  1. Toast the bread and break it into pieces in a serving dish.
  2. Warm the broth and pour it over the bread to soften it.
  3. Heat the butter, then add garlic, vinegar, tomato sauce, and spices. Let it simmer until thick.
  4. Layer the rice over the soaked bread, then add the shredded chicken.
  5. Pour the tomato sauce on top and garnish with parsley or nuts if available.

 More affordable than beef fattah, and you can even use leftover chicken from a previous meal!

. Chicken Béchamel Pasta 

A budget-friendly alternative to minced beef béchamel pasta, and just as delicious with chicken!

Ingredients:

  • ½ kg penne pasta
  • 2 boiled and shredded chicken breasts
  • 3 cups milk
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Boil the pasta and drain it.
  2. Sauté the onion with the shredded chicken, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a separate pot, melt the butter, add the flour, and stir until lightly toasted.
  4. Gradually add the milk while stirring until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.
  5. In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta, then the chicken, then the remaining pasta.
  6. Pour the béchamel sauce on top and sprinkle cheese if available.
  7. Bake at 180°C until golden brown.

 Cheaper than minced beef pasta and made with ingredients you already have at home!

. Budget-Friendly Mixed Stuffed Vegetables 

Stuffed vegetables (Mahshi) are one of the cheapest and most filling dishes for gatherings.

Ingredients:

  • ½ kg Egyptian rice
  • 3 tomatoes, blended
  • 1 large onion, grated
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • ½ cup chopped dill, coriander, and parsley
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 1 kg mixed vegetables for stuffing (cabbage, zucchini, eggplant, grape leaves)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the oil and sauté the onion, then add the blended tomatoes and spices. Let it simmer.
  2. Add the rice and chopped greens, then mix well.
  3. Stuff the vegetables and arrange them in a pot.
  4. Pour hot broth or water over them and let them cook on low heat.

 Much cheaper than meat dishes and incredibly filling!

. Budget-Friendly Chicken Kabsa 

Enjoy the rich flavors of kabsa without the high cost!

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tomato, grated
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 3 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and garlic in oil, then add the chicken and spices.
  2. Once browned, add the grated tomato and stir well.
  3. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then add the rice.
  4. Cover and cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked.

 A luxurious taste without a high cost!


. Baked Potato Kofta in Tomato Sauce 

A budget-friendly alternative to traditional kofta with simple ingredients and amazing flavor!

Ingredients:

  • 3 boiled and mashed potatoes
  • ½ kg minced meat
  • 1 grated onion
  • 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp meat seasoning
  • 2 cups tomato juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

  1. Mix the mashed potatoes with minced meat, onion, breadcrumbs, and spices.
  2. Shape the mixture into balls or patties and place them in a baking dish.
  3. Sauté the garlic in oil, add the tomato juice and spices, and let it simmer.
  4. Pour the sauce over the kofta and bake for 30 minutes.
  5. Serve with vermicelli rice or pita bread.

 A much more affordable alternative to grilled kofta, with a delicious taste!

 Rice with Chicken Liver and Gizzards 

A budget-friendly alternative to fattah or kabsa, with a rich and satisfying taste.

Ingredients:

  • ½ kg chicken liver and gizzards, chopped
  • 2 cups Egyptian rice
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp mixed spices
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups chicken broth or hot water
  • 1 tbsp oil or ghee

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and garlic in oil, then add the liver, gizzards, and spices.
  2. Cook until tender, then add the rice and mix well.
  3. Pour in the broth, cover, and cook on low heat until the rice is fully done.

 A flavorful and filling dish at a low cost!


 Moussaka with Minced Meat 

A delicious and affordable meal with simple ingredients available in every kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggplants, sliced
  • 1 medium potato, sliced
  • ½ kg minced meat
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups tomato juice
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 2 tbsp oil

Instructions:

  1. Fry the eggplant and potato slices, then drain excess oil.
  2. Sauté the onion and garlic, then add minced meat and spices, and cook until done.
  3. In a baking dish, layer the potatoes and eggplant, then add the cooked meat on top.
  4. Pour tomato juice over the layers and bake for 30 minutes.

 Cheaper than béchamel-based meat dishes and very filling!

 Lentil Soup with Vermicelli and Toasted Bread 

A highly economical, nutritious meal—perfect for chilly Ramadan nights.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yellow lentils
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 grated carrot
  • ½ cup vermicelli
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and garlic, then add the lentils, carrot, and water. Let it boil until the lentils are fully cooked.
  2. Blend the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot.
  3. In a pan, toast the vermicelli with a little oil until golden, then add it to the soup.
  4. Let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, then serve with toasted bread.

 A budget-friendly, nutrient-rich dish that can also be a side in your gathering!


. Budget-Friendly Chicken Fajitas 

Restaurant-quality flavors at home for a fraction of the cost!

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and bell pepper in oil, then add the chicken and spices.
  2. Cook on medium heat until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  3. Drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
  4. Serve with tortillas, rice, or bread for a complete meal.

 A delicious and affordable alternative to takeout fajitas!

 Sear them on high heat until the chicken is fully cooked.
 Drizzle with lemon juice and serve with tortilla bread or Egyptian bread.
 Cheaper than ordering from restaurants and super easy to make!

. Orzo Casserole with Chicken

 A hearty, filling meal with ingredients available in every home.

 Ingredients:

  • 2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 chicken thighs, cut into pieces
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon chicken seasoning

 Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and garlic, then add the chicken until browned.
  2. In a separate pan, toast the orzo with a tablespoon of oil.
  3. Combine the chicken, toasted orzo, and broth in an oven-safe dish.
  4. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes.

. Chicken and Potato Casserole (No Oven)

 A budget-friendly, filling, and easy-to-make dish—no oven needed!

 Ingredients:

  • ½ kg (1 lb) chicken thighs or breast, cut into pieces
  • 2 potatoes, sliced into rounds
  • 1 large onion, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon chicken seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oil

 Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and garlic in oil, then add the chicken and spices, stirring until slightly browned.
  2. Add the potatoes and mix well with the chicken.
  3. Pour in the tomato puree, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low heat until the potatoes and chicken are fully cooked.
  4. Serve with vermicelli rice or Egyptian bread.

 A great alternative to oven-baked casseroles and quick to prepare!


 Pasta with Tomato Sauce & Grilled Chicken

 A quick, budget-friendly, and satisfying meal!

 Ingredients:

  • ½ kg (1 lb) pasta (any shape)
  • 1 chicken breast, marinated with lemon and spices
  • 2 cups tomato puree
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon oil

 Instructions:

  1. Boil the pasta and drain it.
  2. Sauté the onion and garlic in oil, then add the tomato puree and spices. Let it simmer until thickened.
  3. Grill or pan-sear the marinated chicken breast until fully cooked and golden brown.
  4. Mix the pasta with the sauce and stir well.
  5. Serve with grilled chicken slices and a fresh green salad.

 Super affordable and tastes just like restaurant-style pasta!


. Lentil Fatteh with Crispy Bread

 A budget-friendly alternative to traditional fatteh, packed with nutrients!

 Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yellow lentils
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups water
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ loaf of Egyptian bread, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons oil

 Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and garlic in oil, then add the lentils, water, and spices.
  2. Once the lentils are cooked, blend them until smooth and return to the pot.
  3. Toast the bread cubes in a pan with a little oil or in the oven.
  4. In a serving dish, layer the crispy bread and pour the lentil soup on top.
  5. Garnish with fried onions or parsley if desired.

 Extremely affordable and can be served as a main or side dish for gatherings!


. Butter Garlic Grilled Chicken with Curry Rice

 A fancy yet simple dish that adds a special touch to any meal!

 Ingredients:

  • ½ kg (1 lb) chicken drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric

 Instructions:

  1. Sauté the garlic in butter, add the chicken and spices, and cook until golden brown.
  2. Cover and let it cook on low heat until fully done.
  3. In a separate pot, sauté the rice with curry powder and turmeric, then add water and let it cook.
  4. Serve the chicken over the rice and garnish with parsley or toasted almonds.

 Restaurant-style flavors at a fraction of the cost!


 Zucchini Gratin with Béchamel (Budget-Friendly & Healthy)

 A nutritious and affordable alternative to pasta béchamel, with an amazing taste!

Ingredients:

  • 3 zucchinis, sliced into rounds
  • ½ kg (1 lb) ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

 Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion with the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until done.
  2. Arrange the zucchini slices in a baking dish and layer the cooked beef on top.
  3. Prepare the béchamel sauce by cooking the flour in butter, adding milk, and stirring until thickened.
  4. Pour the béchamel over the dish and bake until golden brown.

 Cheaper than pasta béchamel and even more nutritious!

 Vegetable Omelette (Quick & Budget-Friendly)

 A super affordable dish that can be served as a main or side!

 Ingredients:

  • 4 eggs
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • ½ cup chopped parsley
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon flour
  • 1 tablespoon oil

 Instructions:

  1. Whisk the eggs with onion, parsley, tomatoes, and spices.
  2. Add the flour and mix well.
  3. Heat oil in a pan, pour in the mixture, and cook on low heat.
  4. Flip to the other side until golden brown.

 Sweet Potato Béchamel Bake

 A budget-friendly alternative to expensive desserts and super filling!

 Ingredients:

  • 3 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons sugar

 Instructions:

  1. Parboil the sweet potatoes.
  2. Prepare the béchamel by cooking the flour in butter, adding milk and sugar, and stirring until thickened.
  3. Arrange the sweet potatoes in a baking dish, pour the béchamel over them, and sprinkle with cinnamon.
  4. Bake until the top is golden brown.

 A simple yet delicious dessert at a low cost!


. Freekeh with Chicken & Vegetables

 A nutritious and budget-friendly alternative to rice!

 Ingredients:

  • ½ kg (1 lb) freekeh, washed
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ kg (1 lb) chicken thighs
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, zucchini)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • Salt, pepper, and spices to taste

 Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and garlic in oil, then add the freekeh and stir until golden brown.
  2. Add the vegetables and broth, cover the pot, and let it cook until the freekeh is tender.

. Freekeh with Chicken & Vegetables

 A nutritious and budget-friendly alternative to rice!

 Instructions (continued):

  1. Sear the chicken in a pan over high heat until golden brown, then place it over the cooked freekeh.
  2. Serve with cucumber yogurt salad.

 Cheaper than rice and packed with nutrients!


 Moussaka with Minced Meat & Potatoes

 A budget-friendly, filling dish that serves many!

 Ingredients:

  • 2 eggplants, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, diced
  • ½ kg (1 lb) minced meat
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • ½ teaspoon meat spices

 Instructions:

  1. Lightly fry the eggplant and potatoes.
  2. Sauté the onion in oil, then add minced meat and spices. Cook until done.
  3. Layer the eggplant, potatoes, and meat in a baking dish, then pour tomato sauce on top.
  4. Bake for 30 minutes. Serve with pita bread or white rice.

 A very economical dish that’s incredibly satisfying!


 Chicken Kabsa (Budget-Friendly Alternative)

 A cost-effective alternative to lamb kabsa with the same delicious taste!

 Ingredients:

  • ½ kg (1 lb) boiled and shredded chicken
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kabsa spices
  • 2 cups chicken broth

 Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onion and garlic in oil, then add the rice and spices and stir.
  2. Pour in the broth and let it cook on low heat.
  3. Sear the boiled chicken pieces in a pan until golden brown.
  4. Serve the chicken over the rice with a side salad.

. Garlic Yogurt Mashed Potatoes (Easy & Affordable Side DishA budget-friendly side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken and meat!

 Ingredients:

  • 3 large potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup yogurt
  • 2 garlic cloves, mashed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

 Instructions:

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft.
  2. Drain and mash them using a fork or potato masher.
  3. Add butter, yogurt, and garlic, then mix until creamy.
  4. Serve warm alongside any main dish.

 Cheaper than creamy mashed potatoes, but still incredibly rich in flavor!

. Cucumber Yogurt Salad with Mint

 A refreshing, quick, and budget-friendly salad!

 Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 cucumber, grated
  • ½ teaspoon dried or fresh mint
  • ½ garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • A pinch of salt and pepper

 Instructions:

  1. Mix the yogurt with cucumber, garlic, and mint.
  2. Add salt and pepper, then stir well.
  3. Serve chilled alongside grilled dishes or heavy meals.

 A cheaper and lighter alternative to mayonnaise-based salads, yet super delicious!


 Baba Ghanoush (Roasted Eggplant Dip)

 One of the most affordable and delicious side dishes!

 Ingredients:

  • 1 large eggplant
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

 Instructions:

  1. Roast the eggplant over an open flame or in the oven until soft.
  2. Peel and mash it with a fork.
  3. Add tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt, then mix well.
  4. Transfer to a plate and drizzle with olive oil.

 Easy, budget-friendly, and pairs well with many dishes!


. Garlic & Lemon Sautéed Vegetables

 A super healthy and cost-effective side dish!

 Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peas
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • ½ cup green beans
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

 Instructions:

  1. Parboil the vegetables, then drain.
  2. Sauté the garlic in olive oil, then add the vegetables.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, then stir for two minutes.
  4. Serve as a side dish with any main course.

 A healthier and cheaper alternative to fried appetizers!


 Garlic & Thyme Toasted Bread

 A budget-friendly alternative to store-bought toast!

 Ingredients:

  • 2 pita or baguette loaves, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • A pinch of dried thyme

Instructions:

  1. Mix the olive oil with garlic and thyme.
  2. Spread the mixture on the bread slices and arrange them on a baking tray.
  3. Bake at 180°C (350°F) until crispy.
  4. Serve with salads or soups.

 More affordable and tastier than store-bought toast!

 Vermicelli Rice (The Cheapest & Tastiest Side Dishes)
 Goes well with all main dishes!

 Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Egyptian rice
  • ½ cup vermicelli
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 3 cups hot water

 Preparation:

  1. Heat the oil in a pot and toast the vermicelli until golden brown.
  2. Add the rice and stir it with the vermicelli.
  3. Pour in the hot water and add the salt.
  4. Let it cook on low heat until fully done.

 More affordable than basmati rice, and it tastes amazing!


 Egyptian Fattoush Salad (with Crispy Baladi Bread)
 A stylish salad, perfect for gatherings!

 Ingredients:

  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup crispy baladi bread pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sumac
  • ½ tsp salt

 Preparation:

  1. Mix the vegetables in a bowl.
  2. Add the crispy bread on top.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix olive oil, sumac, and salt, then pour over the salad.
  4. Toss well and serve immediately.

1. Tahini Mustard Salad
 A rich-flavored salad, perfect with grills and casseroles!

 Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp tahini
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup warm water

 Preparation:

  1. In a bowl, add tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2.