# Iftar dinner checklist — from menu to table, all in one list

An iftar is the meal that breaks the daily Ramadan fast, and with a full table the menu, the shopping and the table setting all pile up. This list covers everything from dates and soup to glasses and tablecloth, and with a room code everyone ticks off what they bring. No sign-up needed.

**In short:** An iftar dinner, the meal that breaks the daily Ramadan fast at sunset, usually opens with dates and water, then soup, olives, cheese, a main dish with rice, salad and yogurt, and finally dessert and tea. Check the iftar time for the day and put the dishes out about 15 minutes before it. Cooking the soup and main dish a day ahead keeps the kitchen calm.

## What's on the list

### General

- Dates
- Dessert
- Ayran
- Tablecloth
- Plates and cutlery
- Glasses
- Napkins

### Pantry staples

- Olives
- Soup ingredients
- Rice

### Dairy & breakfast

- Cheese
- Yogurt

### Bakery

- Ramadan flatbread

### Meat & fish

- Meat or chicken

### Fruit & vegetables

- Vegetables
- Salad ingredients
- Fruit

### Drinks

- Water
- Tea

## Tips

- Look up the iftar time for the day of your invitation and set the dishes on the table about 15 minutes before it, so they stay hot.
- Go easy on portions at first, since people break the fast on an empty stomach, and serve heavy desserts later with the tea.
- Cook the soup and main dish a day ahead and reheat them shortly before iftar; the flavours settle and the kitchen stays calm.
- Ask in advance whether any guests are not fasting, are vegetarian or have allergies, and set out an option for each.

## Frequently asked questions

### How is the fast traditionally broken at iftar?

Traditionally with dates or water, often with olives and cheese, followed by hot soup. In many homes the main course comes after the evening prayer.

### What do you bring to an iftar as a guest?

Usually a dessert such as baklava, dates, fruit or a homemade dish. It helps to ask the host first what would be welcome, so nothing is doubled up.

### What time are guests invited to an iftar?

Usually 30 to 45 minutes before the iftar time, which leaves room to greet everyone and add the final touches to the table. Putting that day's iftar time in the invitation avoids confusion.

### Can I change the list?

Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories.

### Do I need an account?

No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup.

### How long is the list kept?

As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock.

### Can I install it on my phone?

Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap.

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[Start a room with this list](https://ortakliste.app/en/list/iftar-dinner-checklist) — 19 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.