

Potatoes are one of the most widely used vegetables in Turkish cuisine. Sometimes they appear as a simple side dish on our tables, while at other times they can be the star of the main course. This is where Potato Casserole comes in, standing out as a hearty and delicious Ramadan recipe.
Potato Casserole is especially suitable for the 19th day of Ramadan iftar menu, offering a simple yet elegant option for the table. In Turkish cuisine, the term "casserole" typically refers to dishes layered with vegetables or meat. The soft texture of potatoes combined with the flavour of minced meat or chicken creates a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it can be prepared in advance and baked in the oven, allowing it to sit until iftar. This makes it a time-saving option during the busy Ramadan meal preparations. Additionally, Potato Casserole serves as a practical main course alternative that can be enjoyed after the classic desserts and soups of the Ramadan table.
4 medium potatoes
250 grams of minced meat (chicken or turkey mince can also be used)
1 large onion
2 cloves of garlic
1 red pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tea glass of vegetable oil
Salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Half a tea glass of milk
Peel and slice the potatoes thinly. Lightly salt them and either fry or pre-bake them in the oven. This ensures the potatoes remain soft and flavorful at the end of cooking.
Dice the onion and garlic finely. Sauté them in vegetable oil in a pan. Add the minced meat and cook until it changes colour. Add the red pepper and tomato paste, continuing to sauté for about 5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Grease a baking dish and place some of the potato slices on the bottom. Spread the minced meat mixture on top. Add the remaining potato slices and cover with the cheddar cheese mixed with milk.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for approximately 25–30 minutes. Once the cheese has melted and turned lightly golden, your dish is ready to serve.
Serve alongside yogurt or a cold yogurt dip.
For the 19th day of Ramadan iftar menu, pairing it with a light soup and dates balances the meal.
Potato Casserole retains its flavour even when reheated, making it ideal for preparation ahead of iftar.
Drinking tea or coffee after iftar is a traditional habit during Ramadan. However, there are certain points to consider for digestive health and overall comfort.
If your iftar includes a hearty dish like Potato Casserole, it is better to wait 30–45 minutes before consuming tea or coffee rather than drinking it immediately after the meal. This allows the stomach to digest the food more effectively.
A daily total of 2–3 cups of tea or coffee is suitable for most people.
Excessive consumption, especially immediately after iftar, can lead to heartburn or indigestion.
Unsweetened or lightly sweetened options help maintain balanced energy levels during Ramadan.
Herbal teas (such as mint, chamomile, or fennel) are both soothing and aid digestion.
Drinking warm water after iftar can calm the stomach and assist in digesting starchy dishes like Potato Casserole.
Potato Casserole stands out on Ramadan tables not only for its taste but also for its practicality. It is especially preferred on moderately busy days like the 19th day of Ramadan iftar menu, offering a filling yet easy-to-prepare main course.
The combination of potatoes and minced meat provides a balance of protein and carbohydrates. Adding a light soup and salad creates a well-rounded iftar meal that appeals to both the eyes and the stomach.
This recipe can be confidently served at family meals or when hosting guests. Its ability to be prepared in advance saves valuable time during the hectic pace of Ramadan.
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