The days are getting longer, the air is becoming warmer and daffodils are starting to bob their jolly yellow heads in the wind. Yes, Spring is on its way. This changing of the season marks a time for all things to come alive and experience renewal. This year the Hindu celebrations of Holi, the festivities of the Nowrouz, or new year for over 300 million people and the holy month of Ramadan all coincide. Turning March into a month of Feasting and Fasting this Spring.
What is Holi?
Holi is an ancient Hindu tradition and also one of the most popular festivities in Hinduism. The day signifies the triumph of good over evil. Known as the festival of colour, Holi is a boisterous occasion. Family and friends throw handfuls of coloured powder on each other and celebrate by eating festive foods such as Gujiyas, which are like sweet Cornish pasties. They drink lassi which is a sweet fruit drink and enjoy Puris which are stuffed fried pastries filled with savoury fillings.
What is Nowrouz?
Nowrouz is a rite dating back to at least 6th century BC and is celebrated in many countries. This includes: Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Pakistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan to name a few.
The United Nations estimates that over 300 million people, of many different religions and cultures, around world celebrate Nowrouz.
Although the traditions and customs that accompany Nowrouz vary from country to country, there are many unifying features. Mainly the gathering of family, the ancient traditions of symbolisms and feasting during the festivities.
What is the Holy Month of Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community.
During this month, Muslims won’t eat or drink between dawn and sunset. This time of fasting is devoted to faith and to the coming closer to God. At sunset the fast is traditionally broken with a cup of warm water and a date. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid-al-fitr. It is a time for families to come together, eat and celebrate – fasting and feasting this Spring.
Dried fruits and nuts – a staple feasting tradition
Eating plays a central role in all these festivities. Dried fruits and nuts are eaten in many countries during spring celebrations. This is because as we come from winter into spring, there isn’t an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables available. Dried fruits and nuts are the perfect substitute and treat. In many countries dried fruits and nuts are presented as gifts when visiting friends and family.
During Nowrouz many families mix their own special mix, this is called ajeel. This gorgeous mixture contains nuts such as pistachios, walnuts and almonds. Mixed with dried white mulberries, baby yellow figs and speciality green raisins.
Nowadays mixes are more modern. Nuts such as cashews and pecans and dried fruits such as kiwis and papaya are added to the modern exotic ajeel.
At Medfood we sell an amazing range of dried fruits and nuts. We also roast and flavour our nuts inhouse, so you always receive the freshest and the best quality products from us.
The King of Dates – Kind Solomon
In many cultures dates are considered as a holy fruit with its routes in heaven. Dates are often eaten during festivals and during Ramadan they are used to break fast. Our King Solomon Dates King Solomon Medjoul dates are known as the ‘King of Dates’ because of their size and rich caramel succulence.
Super large in size, soft and fleshy, our dates are both gourmet and wholesome. They are high in fibre and potassium and have a natural sweetness. We supply these succulent dates in 5kg boxes at competitive prices. Please contact us to find out more.
A sweet celebration
Sweet meats and delicacies are a popular treat around new year. Homemade delicacies are placed with pride on tables during the festivities. Heading west along the silk road and across Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Turkey a familiar delicacy is presented. Boxes of rose scented Turkish delight are gifted and eaten with glasses of tea or small cups of coffee. Nowadays modern flavours are available to treat our taste buds. These include cherry, apple, mint and pomegranate and delicate nuts such as pistachios are added for even more luxury.
At Medfood we have a tantalising array of Turkish delight on offer. Our range includes the classics such as rose and lemon as well as many new flavours. Browse our site to find out more about our range and flavours.
They joys of sweet baklava
Baklava is also served on special occasions, in many areas during religious ceremonies. Thus, Christians serve baklava at Christmas and Easter, Muslims eat it during Ramadan, and Jews often enjoy it as a Rosh Hashannah and Purim treat.
Baklava is often eaten at feasts because of its expensive and indulgent ingredients. Layers of paper thin pastry, a generous filling of roasted nuts and coverings of honey and syrup make up this delicious treat.
At Medfood we sell fresh Baklava in 2kg trays and also gifting baklava in 250g and 500g gift boxes.
Taking comfort in old traditions
Annual traditions to welcome spring have been passes on from generation to generation throughout the last millennium. They all provide an opportunity to not only enjoy ancient cultural customs and traditions but also promote peace and solidarity within towns and communities. Creating and strengthening deep-rooted bonds of friendship and exchange.
At Medfood we would like to extend our warm wishes for a happy and peaceful spring to everyone.
If you would like to discuss your business needs with us and talk to us about our range of products, call our sales team on 020 8965 6528 or contact us for more information.
