Community Spirit in Tajoura: Preparing Bazin for Ramadan

During Ramadan, the Libyan town of Tajoura unites annually to prepare bazin, a beloved iftar dish made from barley flour, often served with stew. The preparation involves the entire community, exemplifying solidarity and charity despite ongoing challenges within the country.

Each year, during the holy month of Ramadan, the Libyan town of Tajoura unites to create bazin, a cherished dish. Located just east of Tripoli, bazin is particularly suited for iftar, the meal marking the end of the daily fast. Made primarily from unleavened barley flour, it is served with a hearty stew filled with vegetables and mutton, although a simple tomato sauce may substitute when mutton is scarce due to ongoing conflicts in Libya.

The preparation of bazin is a communal activity that involves residents of all ages. Local men typically take the lead in creating the bread in a communal kitchen, employing long sticks to mix water with barley flour in large pots. Others join in to knead the dough, forming it into sizable lumps resembling giant dumplings before baking or steaming them. Once prepared, volunteers distribute bazin to eager residents waiting in line to take the dish home for iftar.

Ramadan in Tajoura is not only a time for communal meals and prayers but also emphasizes charity and spirituality as the community bonds over the act of creating and sharing this beloved dish. It reflects their resilience and sense of togetherness amidst ongoing challenges.

In summary, the preparation of bazin in Tajoura highlights the importance of community and tradition during Ramadan. Despite the difficulties faced due to conflict, the town’s residents unite for a common purpose, sharing both food and spiritual fellowship. This communal effort strengthens their bonds, showcasing the resilience of Libyan culture and the enduring significance of Ramadan.

Original Source: www.wral.com