When Ramadan arrives it brings a host of ancient traditions and conventions. Apart from the obvious ones, an important and very functional tradition is that of sipping on a wide array of drinks that become ubiquitous during Ramadan.
Not only do these drinks rehydrate you after a long day of fasting but they are also a rich source of vitamins and minerals that provide necessary aid to one's digestive system throughout the month.
Qamrideen
Made from dried apricot paste, this drink aids digestion and regulates metabolism, both of which can be unsettled by long hours of fasting. In addition, the drink is abundant in Vitamins A, B and C and contains a high amount of iron, calcium, phosphorous and potassium. These are particularly prone to depletion as a consequence of the dehydration that can result from fasting.
Qamrideen contains just the right amount of sugar and therefore rouses the digestive system without over-stimulating it, making it a perfect way to start iftar.
We love: Qamrideen has calming properties which can calm even the most irritable fasters.
Liquorice Root Drink
Made from the root of the liquorice plant, this drink contains the non-carbohydrate properties of the plant which make it sweeter than sugar but without the calories. Usually served from a traditional container, this drink raises blood pressure (which can drop during fasting), relieves constipation and fights lethargy.
We love: It has stomach-soothing properties; perfect as a drink after an indulgent iftar.
Tamarind Drink
An appetite stimulant and high in Vitamin C, this drink is an obvious choice during Ramadan. Rich in calcium, one can make a cold drink from it by soaking it in water or even milk, which combats its acidic properties.
We love: Even diabetics can drink it since it has blood sugar and cholesterol regulating properties.
Laban Rayeb (Yoghurt-based drink)
Made from yoghurt, it possesses friendly bacteria that help keep our digestive systems working smoothly. It also relieves any stomach upsets, caused either by a rich meal or by overeating, by cleaning the intestines and digestive tract.
We love: It helps keep our waistlines slim.
As we said at the outset, Ramadan is accompanied by a number of traditions and conventions. But that is not all. Behind each tradition lies a reason coupled with the wisdom of our forefathers. So sip away this Ramadan and know that each sip is nourishing your body with the wellness it needs.
— The writer is a food fan
Recipe: Laban rayeb (yoghurt drink)
Ingredients
- 4 cups drained yoghurt.
- 8 cups ice cold spring water or sparkling mineral water.
- 1 tbsp. dried or 2 tbsp. fresh, finely chopped mint.
- 2 tsp. salt, or to taste.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice, or to taste (optional).
Getting started
Step 1: Mix all ingredients together.
Step 2: Cool in refrigerator until Servings.
Step 3: Garnish with mint leaves
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
