Rejuvenate with chilled brews

With Ramadan around the corner, a number of significant beverages widely enjoyed by residents in the UAE make their way to the dining table

Here are some of the UAE's beloved drinks to try out:

Qamaradeen: Also known as Apricot juice, this fruity drink is especially popular during Ramadan. The traditional method requires one to soak strips of dried apricot for about five hours or longer. This allows the flavour to seep in and results in a thick puree that is then chilled and served. Nowadays, instant mix-and-drink varieties are available for convenience.   
Tamer Hindi: The drink offers a unique taste of tamarind, which features a delightful tangy but refreshing taste. Boiled water is poured over tamarind pulp, and sugar or honey is mixed in. For variety, people add spoonfuls of cinnamon, vanilla or grated ginger to the pulp as well. The mixture is left to stand overnight, then strained. The taste is adjusted according to personal preference such as diluting with more water or adding more sugar/honey, then refrigerated and later served with ice. 
Vimto: Everyone knows that Vimto is the king of all drinks during Iftars and Suhoors. The thick syrupy texture, bursting with a mixed fruits concentrate (grape, blackcurrant and raspberry), is much loved by all family members. It is available in cordial bottles at every supermarket and grocery store in the UAE. The drink is prepared with one part concentrate and three parts of cold water.
Jallab: Another table favourite, Jallab is a delectable blend of dates, grape molasses and rose water that is served with crushed ice and garnished with pine nuts and raisins. The drink is slightly sweet and the rose water gives the drink a delicate aroma that rejuvenates the senses after a long day of fasting.
Laban: This milk-based drink has many names across the Middle East, but is equally enjoyed by all. It is created by the fermentation of milk, which gives it its light sour taste and thick creamy consistency. This paired with dates make an ideal starter during Iftar. Endless varieties of laban are available in all supermarkets in the UAE, leaving consumers spoilt for choice.
Lassi: Lassi is one of those drinks that grew in popularity, thanks to the influence of UAE's diverse expat community. A super refreshing cold drink made with yoghurt, it is consumed in both sweet and savoury forms. The light frothy drink is prepared with spices, water, and at times, even fruit. It makes a perfect concoction for the Middle East's hot, arid climate.
Rooh Afza: Nicknamed "Summer Drink of the East" and a staple in the UAE's beverage culture, it is a versatile concoction of fruits, herbs, vegetables, flowers and roots that bring endless refreshing combinations to suit every taste bud. It can be served as a simple water/milk-and-syrup mix, or added to sorbets, cold desserts, milk-based recipes such as pudding, etc.
- farhana@khaleejtimes.com

• Food and Dining
• Ramadan 2021