Tajoura Unites to Prepare Beloved Bazin Dish for Ramadan Celebrations

In Tajoura, Libya, the community unites annually during Ramadan to prepare bazin, a traditional dish made from unleavened barley flour and served with stew or tomato sauce. Residents of all ages participate in the preparation and distribution of this cherished meal, which is integral to their evening iftar celebrations.

During Ramadan, the Libyan town of Tajoura, located east of Tripoli, unites to prepare a cherished dish known as bazin. This savory and rich meal is traditionally enjoyed at iftar, the evening meal signifying the end of the day’s fasting. Bazin is primarily made from unleavened barley flour and complemented with a hearty stew, often containing vegetables and mutton, though alternatives such as tomato sauce are utilized due to supply issues stemming from ongoing regional strife.

The preparation of bazin is a community affair in Tajoura, witnessing the participation of residents of all ages. Men typically take the lead in making the bread at a shared kitchen, where they stir the barley flour and water into a dough using wooden sticks. After kneading, the dough is shaped into large clumps resembling giant dumplings, which are then baked or steamed for serving.

As the bazin is ready, volunteers distribute it to those lined up outside the communal kitchen, providing the townsfolk with the opportunity to take this beloved dish home for their iftar meal. Moreover, Ramadan in Tajoura fosters an atmosphere of prayer, charity, and enhanced spirituality, further solidifying community bonds.

This photographic documentation by Yousef Murad was curated under the guidance of Amr Nabil in Cairo, highlighting the importance of bazin during this sacred month.

The communal effort in Tajoura exemplifies the significance of shared traditions during Ramadan, particularly through the preparation of bazin. This time-honored dish not only sustains the physical needs of the community but also reinforces spiritual connections and charitable giving among the residents, showcasing the resilience of Libyan culture amid adversity.

Original Source: www.wral.com