sahour

Sahour, also spelled sahoor, suhoor, or sehri, is the pre-dawn meal consumed by Muslims before the daytime fast during Ramadan and on other fasting days. Eaten before the fajr prayer, sahour marks the start of the daily fast, which ends at sunset with iftar. The practice occurs across Muslim communities worldwide, with regional variations in foods and customs.

Etymology: The term derives from the Arabic word suhur (سُحور), meaning pre-dawn meal. Transliterations include sahour, sahoor, suhoor, and sehri.

Timing and purpose: Sahour is typically consumed in the last portion of the night, just before dawn. It aims to provide hydration and sustained energy for the long day of fasting. Many people eat a balanced meal and then sleep briefly until fajr.

Typical foods: A sahour menu often includes fluids such as water or milk, protein and complex carbohydrates from eggs, yogurt, cheese, beans, oats, bread or flatbread, fruits, and dates. Tea or coffee is common in some regions. Food choices vary by culture and personal preference.

Cultural and religious context: Sahour is commonly observed during Ramadan and is noted in Islamic traditions as a blessed practice. Practices and timings can vary between communities, with some families sharing the meal together before dawn.