• A vendor in Syria holds the traditional sweetbread known as naaem. AFP
    A vendor in Syria holds the traditional sweetbread known as naaem. AFP
  • The snack, also called ‘Ramadan bread’, is prepared by frying a flattened ball of dough until it is as crunchy as a crisp. AFP
    The snack, also called ‘Ramadan bread’, is prepared by frying a flattened ball of dough until it is as crunchy as a crisp. AFP
  • The crunchy dessert costs about 2,500 Syrian pounds, less than two dollars. AFP
    The crunchy dessert costs about 2,500 Syrian pounds, less than two dollars. AFP
  • Damascus dwellers say naaem is there to stay. AFP
    Damascus dwellers say naaem is there to stay. AFP
  • During Ramadan, residents flock at sundown to buy the deep-fried treat from street vendors, who prepare them in bubbling pans. AFP
    During Ramadan, residents flock at sundown to buy the deep-fried treat from street vendors, who prepare them in bubbling pans. AFP
  • A vendor holds naaem, which is a bit like a pancake. AFP
    A vendor holds naaem, which is a bit like a pancake. AFP
  • A piece of naaem is lifted from the oil. AFP
    A piece of naaem is lifted from the oil. AFP
  • The naaem is dressed with grape molasses. AFP
    The naaem is dressed with grape molasses. AFP
  • The syrupy snack is handed to a customer. AFP
    The syrupy snack is handed to a customer. AFP

MENA

Sweet and cheap: Why naaem is a Ramadan favourite in Damascus - in pictures

Year after year Ramadan meals become more frugal in war-torn Syria, but the crunchy naaem is popular whatever the outlook

The National

April 30, 2021

  • English
  • Arabic
MENA