8 classic dishes for Eid-al-Adha

Eid-al-Adha, which means “Festival of Sacrifice” is a very special occasion in the Islamic calendar. Aside from the sacrifice that takes place, it’s become even more significant to me over the last two years as it commemorates the end of the Hajj period, the holy pilgrimage my husband and I were lucky to undertake in 2019. It will now forever be the celebration that reminds me to reflect on this life-changing journey and enjoy quality time with my loved ones, while eating lovingly prepared delectable dishes and desserts.

1. CORNED BEEF

An Eid breakfast table is incomplete without corned beef also known as “salt meat” or “soutvleis”. When my mother, Shoneez Marks first shared this recipe with me, I was shocked at the handful of ingredients and the minimal effort required. All you need is patience for it to be perfectly juicy and tender. A slice of corned beef is best enjoyed on a slice of freshly baked bread with a slathering of pure butter.

Find the recipe for corned beef here.

2. MUTTON BIRYANI

Biryani is a signature layered rice dish that is synonymous not only with Eid, but with many special occasions in a Muslim home, including weddings. It requires quite a bit of preparation, but it is absolutely worth it and such an impressive accomplishment once you dig into it. This is a recipe my mother has mastered and I’m always in awe with how effortlessly she puts it together.

Find the recipe for mutton biryani here.

3. MASALA STEAK PIES

Savouries are another firm favourite for Eid breakfast and can vary from samoosas to half-moons, and one of my all-time favourites, a delicious pure-butter pastry pie with a flavourful filling, ready to dunk into a ready-made samosa-and-pie dipping sauce. Fillings for pies are endless and this particular recipe is a versatile masala steak recipe I often use for toasted sandwiches or, in this case, as a pie filling.

Find the recipe for masala steak pies here.

4. GRILLED LOBSTER TAILS

I adore the balance a seafood dish brings to an Eid menu. Whether it’s prawns, a seafood mix or lobster, it is always a win and a firm favourite for me! For a lighter main meal option or as a perfect side, these tasty grilled lobster tails are ideal and are made using basic ingredients I enjoy to give the lobster the spotlight it deserves.

Find the recipe for grilled lobster tails here. 

5. ALOO FRY

Aloo fry is a simple stir-fried potato side dish that is the perfect accompaniment to a lentil dish or a roast. I have such fond memories of my mother making this aromatic potato fry and serving it with her signature lentil or dhal curry.

Find the recipe for aloo fry here. 

6. KHEER

This dessert is my childhood in every bite. For as long as I can remember my mother has whipped up this cardamom-infused creamy dessert. She now has a standing order to prepare this for her friends every Eid. It is truly loved by all!

Find the recipe for kheer here. 

7. CARDAMOM PAVLOVA AND WHIPPED ROSE CREAM

Pavlova has always been a firm favourite of mine and my family. After an intensive main meal, a pavlova is a welcomed, light dessert with flavours that can so easily be adapted to preference. I love the Middle Eastern flavours of this particular twist which is balanced so well with the addition of fresh fruit.

Find the recipe for cardamom pavlova and whipped rose cream here.

8. SAFFRON SWISS ROLL WITH WHIPPED CARDAMOM CREAM

I absolutely love how easy (if you use the correct techniques) and pretty a Swiss roll is to bake and serve, two critical factors for Eid preparations. Its versatility is another winning factor, allowing you to easily change it up from one Eid to the next with simple flavour tweaks. For example, aromatic saffron in the Swiss roll, combined with the cardamom in the cream, is a flavour combination that completely elevates this go-to cake, making it an Eid showstopper!

Find the recipe for saffron swiss roll with whipped cardamom cream here. 

Want more delicious ideas from Saadiyah? Follow her on Instagram, @sadiesbubbleofyum.