In the bustling streets of Damascus, the aroma of freshly baked marook wafts through the air as locals clamoring for their favorite bread. The scene unfolds each evening during Ramadan, where impatience meets excitement as people prepare to break their fast. The once-simple marook, a sweetened bread topped with sesame seeds, has transformed, much like the nation itself, adapting to new culinary preferences amidst its rich history.
A Sweet Tradition: Marook's Evolution in Ramadan

A Sweet Tradition: Marook's Evolution in Ramadan
As the sun sets during Ramadan, the race to grab marook, Syria's beloved sweet bread, showcases a blend of tradition and modern tastes.
As the bellies of patrons grumble in anticipation of iftar, the air is filled with both tension and the smell of baked sweetness. The bakeries, especially Al Jouzeh, are at the centerpiece, producing thousands of unique marook variations each year, reflecting not only Syria's evolving taste but also its enduring culinary heritage.
From olives in fattoush to parsley in hummus, adjustments to traditional recipes are embraced rather than shunned, and marook is no exception. The evolving flavors symbolize a resilience in Syrian culture that flourishes, even as the country grapples with its challenges. As the new generations savor this special bread during Ramadan, they also keep the spirit of innovation alive in a beloved tradition.
From olives in fattoush to parsley in hummus, adjustments to traditional recipes are embraced rather than shunned, and marook is no exception. The evolving flavors symbolize a resilience in Syrian culture that flourishes, even as the country grapples with its challenges. As the new generations savor this special bread during Ramadan, they also keep the spirit of innovation alive in a beloved tradition.