No one can stop at just one glass

Colourful, healthy, and delectable - we bring to you a guide on the must-have juices this Holy Month. The beverages add a nostalgic touch to Iftars

Does the number and variety of juice offerings at Iftars leave you confused? You're not alone. As much as we love the spoilt for choice spread, we too have a tough time in selecting one! From a thick yellow concoction to the purple hued potion, there are a number of traditional, replenishing juices that you can drink after breaking the fast. These drinks can be had during and after Iftar, as they help the body re-hydrate - to deal with the loss of liquids during the day and also to stay hydrated for the next day. We'd say, next time you are invited to an Iftar stay away from the caffeinated beverages and sample the refreshing juices. The table is full, here's what you can pour into the glasses.
Qamar el-deen: The beloved apricot drink is one of the most popular juices this season. It is yellow in colour and has a thick texture so try not to mistake it for mango juice. Having the drink is the perfect way to start Iftar as it has enough sugar and vitamins A and C to boost the digestive system without over stimulating it and it also enhances immunity. The drink is made from either rolled dried apricot or dried apricot paste; the fruit leathers are often packaged into a yellow cellophane-covered brick, which can be bought at one of the local grocery stores (you can easily make it at home). It has an uplifting taste and can be enjoyed in different consistencies from treacle-thick to water-thin.
Tamar Hindi: It is not really Ramadan if you don't smell tamarind in the air! The name of the drink translates into 'Indian date' and is prepared with tamarind, which is often used in the preparation of Indian chutneys as well as curries. It is a much-loved energising summer drink. The sweet beverage with a tangy flavour comprises crushed tamarind, water, sugar, and lemon juice. It is the ideal choice for those who are not fond of very sweet drinks; plus, the sour cold pick-me-up beverage can cool you down on the hottest of days.
Vimto: A jug of Vimto is considered to be a symbol of Ramadan and is the next must-have item after dates. The drink is so woven into the fabric of the season that it evokes wistfulness. It is made with mixed red berries and is sold in a glass bottle or in a can. Although, Vimto is British in origin, it is quite the rage in the Middle East as it provides a much-needed energy boost at Iftar. Those who don't like dates or can't have them, usually opt to break their fast with a glass of the sweet concoction. Also, supermarkets often run out of stock and face a great demand for it throughout the month.
Jallab: The stimulating drink is popular throughout the year, but gains special significance during the Holy Month. It is made from dates, grape molasses, and rose water and is served with lots of crushed ice and topped with pine nuts and raisins. The ingredient list reads like the notes of a perfume and each sip of the beverage leaves a nice taste in your mouth and is great treat after a long, hot summer day. The highlight of the intensely sweet potion is the addition of incense, which gives it certain smokiness at its base. The delectably sweet taste will quench your thirst and its always fun to fish for pine nuts from the bottom of the glass with a straw. A Jallab without pine nuts isn't really Jallab.
Karkadeh: This hibiscus tea is a stimulating beverage and can be had either hot or cold. It has a striking red hue and a tart, cranberry-like punchy flavour, as it is a sweet infusion made from the hibiscus flower. The brew has a number of health advantages and is believed to lower blood pressure, flushes out toxins, contains vitamin C so it guards against cold and flu, and is ideal for a tired body. Be careful while sipping it though, for if spilled its deep red pigment may leave a stain on your clothes.
deepa@khaleejtimes.com
Deepa is a proud geek and an unabashed Harry Potter fan

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• Ramadan Delight