Day 13: Fasting, Firni, and Fastballs

I am so proud of my nephews, Ameer and Nabeel. They are growing up with a strong foundation in faith, coupled with a deep passion for sports, especially baseball. They recite the Quran beautifully, and can rattle off any Major League players vital stats. Since Ramadan has been during the summer, faith and baseball come together. The boys have kept several fasts, some days through blazing practices; on game days they break their fast before the first pitch.  Ameer’s favorite break fast meal is Panera’s grilled cheese sandwich or pizza; Nabeel loves his mom’s samosas and salans. At night, they pray Isha and Taraweeh at the mosque with their Islamic school community.  After eight rakkats, they shoot hoops with their friends in the school gym. Some nights they stay awake playing FIFA on XBox Live with their friends, all the way to suhoor.   That’s when they eat their favorite treat –- firni (rice pudding), the way their Anna (grandmother) used to make it.  All American Muslim (I mean, Canadian!).  Love you, my Babas.Day 13, Tradition 13:Fasting, Firni, and FastballsAnna’s Firni2 cups of 2% milk2 ladles of cream of rice cereal¼ plus cups sugarPinch cardamom powderDash of rose waterIn a metal pot, add milk. Stir in the cream of rice. Stir on medium heat until the mixture comes to a slow boil. Once the mixture thickens, add sugar. Stir for 5 minutes longer until sugar completely dissolves and no lumps remain. Remove from heat and add cardamom powder and rose water. Cool before serving.