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Iftar meals during the month-long period of Ramadan are all about nourishment and comfort interspersed with a few bold flavours. Those observing Ramadan keep a day-long fast which is followed in the evening by the Iftar meal.
The month is all about immersing oneself in spirituality and worship, and Iftar meals recognise this moderation and wholesome living. Mutton kheema or minced mutton is one ingredient which can bring heart, comfort and wholesomeness into the Iftar meal. Different mutton kheema recipes can be prepared for the evening spread that introduce a hint of flavour and versatility to the fasting feast.
Spicy Mutton Kheema
Mutton mince is a good protein to work with, it can be used to make easy meals as the kheema cooks quicker than larger pieces and adapts quite well to different masalas. The classic spicy mutton kheema is one recipe which never disappoints.
Sautée onions in a kadai and add ginger-garlic paste, some red chilli powder and a little bit turmeric and garam masala to infuse the kheema with a subtle layer of spice. At the Iftar meal, pair the kheema with warm pav or toast and serve as a meal that is satisfying but quite uncomplicated.
Kheema Samosa
Another way to incorporate kheema into the Iftar spread is in the form of a crispy samosa. Make small samosas in order to exercise moderation in the portion size. The crisp snacks can be part of a larger grazing board curated especially to break the day-long fast.
Add peas and onions to a kheema stuffing flavoured with red chilli powder, cumin and coriander powder and some homemade garam masala. Wrap the filling in a samosa cone and air fry or deep fry until they turn a delicious golden brown. Bite-sized and ideal for sharing, kheema samosas can be served with a fresh mint chutney.
Kheema Paratha
Turn a simple kheema into a sumptuous main course and make a kheema stuffed paratha that can be presented with a simple raita and pickled onions. However, cook the kheema until it is slightly drier than usual so it can be packed into the paratha dough.
Roll the flatbread with a rolling pin akin to a regular stuffed paratha recipe and roast it on the tawa until slightly crisp. This filling and flavour-packed paratha is all you would need for breaking fast with a simple but delicious meal option.
Kheema Pulao
An easy, one-pot Iftar meal that promotes clean eating and moderation is kheema pulao made with spiced minced meat mix that is blended into long-grain basmati rice. Layer the kheema pulao with fried onions, mint and some saffron milk and steam on low heat for about 15 minutes.
The aromatic and quite delicious rice balances the protein and carb content rather beautifully in one comforting and sumptuous meal which is seldom too heavy on the gut. Garnish the pulao with a mixture of finely chopped mint and coriander leaves which will add another fragrant, herbaceous and savoury layer to the straightforward rice dish. 
Mutton Kheema And Boiled Eggs
This pairing is a rather signature delicacy that is often seen at Iftar meals during the month-long Ramadan. Interestingly, the kheema can be given a more gravy-like touch in this preparation before adding boiled eggs cut into halves.
The eggs soak up the gravy from the kheema and acquire a delicious spice of their own. This is a very protein-rich combination that can be paired with roomali roti to balance out some of the heat and spiciness of the kheema gravy.
