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

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  • Arabic

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