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popular rice and water dish from Fofana's native country, might even show up. This aspect of breaking the fast is one of Fofana's favorites and fortifies Muslims, he said. "I ar allows Muslims to connect with each other and invited guests that are not Muslims. It allows us to see the diversity that exist in our faith and throughout the Earth," he shared. "It's very beautiful to see that." "A big aspect of our faith as Muslims is our community," Siyam said. "Coming together a er a day of fasting to eat a wonderful meal and praying together as a community provides a sense of unity and allows us to come together in a very special way." Ruqiyyah said she thinks it's especially beneficial to young people. "It's so important as a time for self- reflection, growing, eating better, and spending a special time with family and friends," she said. "The relationship between food, family, and friends during Ramadan is so special," Chafyaay added. "Fasting and breaking the fast is a communal event," Jalila chimed in. "Food is what we use to connect." Ras el Hanout Spice Mix Ras el hanout means "head of the shop" in Arabic and indicates a choice blend of spices. Popular in North African cuisine, you can use it in all kinds of dishes to bring out an earthy flavor. Mix it in rice or couscous, make it into a curry, or use it as a meat rub. No ras el hanout is exactly the same, but here's our take on the blend. 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground coriander seed 1¼ teaspoon turmeric ¾ teaspoon cinnamon ¾ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper ¾ teaspoon allspice ¼ teaspoon ground cloves Note: Traditional preparation does not include salt or sugar, but many add it to taste. Perhaps add 1 teaspoon salt or ¾ teaspoon sugar if preferred. PHOTO BY JESSICA WHITLEY SUBSCRIBE TODAY HELLO@MACONMAGAZINE.COM | 478.746.7779 Business Administration (MBA) Elementary Education (M.Ed.) Industrial Organizational Psychology (M.A.) Music (M.A.) Nonprofit Management (M.S.) Graduate Admissions: (478) 477-1110 graduate@wesleyancollege.edu wesleyancollege.edu/graduate GRADUATE PROGRAMS Wesleyan College Designed for the driven. Wesleyan's fast-track graduate programs provide flexibility and professional networking that lasts a lifetime. FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023 | maconmagazine.com 95