Celebrate Ramadan 2025 in style and create lasting memories with family and friends, using our curated collection of inspiring recipes from renowned chefs and creative mocktail masters in the GCC region and beyond.
Our exciting recipe series provides you with access to some of the most beloved dishes from the best restaurants and five-star hotels in the region. Our readers will be treated to a selection of delicious Ramadan specials, iconic and signature dishes, and refreshing, flavourful drinks that will make this Ramadan Season's family gatherings the most memorable yet.
Date Bites
In February 2025, Gerbou opened its doors in Dubai's quiet Nad Al Sheba neighbourhood. Uniquely situated in a refurbished 1980s community centre that shares its space with Tashkeel, the Emirati-infused restaurant aims to offer diners a unique experience, blending global and local flavours, and adding a distinctive Emirati twist.
Spearheaded by renowned chef, Chef Ionel Catau, the menu at Gerbou caters to the most discerning palates, seamlessly blending Chef Catau’s extensive international expertise working across Michelin-starred restaurants with his deep understanding of different culinary techniques with local flavours, tastefully complemented with delightful global influences. While pastry chef Al Awadhi reimagines traditional desserts.
Ingredients:
- 500g of dates
- 25g of ghee
- 25g of date syrup
- 2g of cardamom powder
- 2g of cinnamon powder
- 1g of ginger powder
Method:
- Add all dry ingredients to a dry, clean bowl.
- Chop dates until a consistency that can be easily combined into a ball form.
- Add dates, ghee and date syrup to the dry ingredients.
- Mix well to distribute the spices and infuse the date syrup and ghee well.
- Once combined and forming a sticky, yet fairly solid consistency, scoop out 25g portions.
- Roll these 25g portions into bit size balls.
- Roll your date bites in your choice of toppings such as flaked coconut, crushed pistachio, sesame seeds or anything you fancy.
- And serve!
Note: These date bites can be made ahead of time and easily refrigerated
Gerbou
Nad Al Sheba, Dubai
@gerbou
