After a long day of fasting, especially in summer, thirst can be stronger than hunger. The drinks of choice are usually sweet and fruity, but each country puts its own spin on a refreshing beverage.

In this country at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula, the nutrition-packed palm-tree treat is essential to tradition, sustenance and the economy — and has been for hundreds of years.

For Christians and Muslims in the Middle East, maamoul is an essential part of Easter and Eid respectively. Stuffed with date paste or nuts, this buttery cookie dates back to ancient Egypt.

This thick, creamy stew features 12 "grains" to represent the Twelve Apostles and cod to denote Jesus. It takes days and many hands to prepare, a meal befitting Ecuador's elaborate Lenten traditions.

Widely considered the national dish, no one knows quite where it came from. But you can find this flavorful carb-packed treat anywhere from mama's kitchen to food carts and elaborate eateries.

In traditional Lebanese Christian homes, Christmas Eve dinner is not complete without this earthy and symbolic dish. But some fear traditions are fading in the wake of the country's long civil war.

While Mexico's Día de los Muertos is better known in the U.S., the day is observed through Latin America, with customs as diverse as the people. In Ecuador, it's Dia de los Difuntos.