What are some Muslim food customs?

Answer 1

Muslims follow a strict set of dietary laws. They will literally starve, before they will eat something that goes against what the Qur'an allows them to partake in. There is a certain way animals are to be slaughtered, in order for the Muslims to eat them--they cannot be choked, gorged, killed by another wild animal, etc. They do not eat ANY pork, or pork by-products, including Gelatin. Alcohol is also forbidden, as well as anything else that can intoxicate them.

Fresh ripened dates known as 'Rutab' or dried and compact dates known as 'Tamar' (depending on the season) are eaten during Ramadan, following the tradition of The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH-Peace be upon him)) when he ate dates to break his fast.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. This can cause drastic drops in blood sugar, causing headaches, etc. So, dates provide a good source of natural sugar, carbohydrates, fiber, magnesium, and potassium. Since dates are dried to last all year round, they will last for much longer than fresh fruits, and are easier to travel with, and to maintain.

Muslims also eat with their right hands, as the right hand is seen as "clean", meaning that is the hand they wave with, shake hands with, etc. Whereas, the left hand is considered "unclean", as it is predominately used for cleaning oneself.

When guests are welcomed into one's home they are always offered fruits on a platter , dates and other traditional sweets such as 'Halwa' and later served 'Qahwa' Arabic , traditional coffee which is poured from 'della' ( pot ) into small China cups known as 'Finyans'. After eating, the incense burner of perfumed, oil scented 'oudh' is passed around to the guests.

One should always eat food with the right hand and even pass food with the right hand. Shoes are never worn indoors, they are left at the entrance. Also, never place the sole of your feet in front of anyone or turn your back to them as it is considered rude.