Ramadan

Ramadan 2023: Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, is a time of joy and optimism. People who fast pray all day long before breaking their fast and sharing a meal together. This month is all about giving thanks to the Almighty and practicing ibaadat. One of the most significant daily rituals is iftar, when worshippers break their fasts together and give thanks to God for their wellbeing. During the Iftari, a variety of meals and beverages are provided that satisfy hunger and give the body enough nutrition to counteract fasting. The treats contain a variety of fruits and dry fruits. Because they are satiating and satisfy summertime desires, beverages play a significant role during the iftari.

Iftari

 

The following beverages are suitable for Iftari:

 

Rose Sharbat:

rose

Rose Sharbat is a popular beverage in many parts of the world, especially in the Middle East and South Asia. It is made by steeping rose petals in water and adding sugar to create a sweet and fragrant syrup. The syrup is then mixed with water or milk to make a refreshing and aromatic drink.

Rose Sharbat is believed to have originated in Persia (modern-day Iran) and has been a part of the culinary traditions of many cultures for centuries. In addition to being a refreshing drink, Rose Sharbat is also used in various desserts and baked goods, such as cakes and cookies.

Rose Sharbat is considered to have several health benefits as well. Rose petals contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, Rose Sharbat is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Overall, Rose Sharbat is a delicious and healthy beverage that is enjoyed by many people around the world.

Banana and Date Smoothie:

banana-date

A banana and date smoothie is a delicious and healthy drink that is perfect for breakfast or as a mid-day snack. Here’s a simple recipe for making a banana and date smoothie:

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
  • 6-8 dates, pitted and chopped
  • 1 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the sliced bananas, chopped dates, milk, yogurt, honey (if using), and vanilla extract in a blender.
  2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. If the smoothie is too thick, you can add a few ice cubes and blend again until smooth.
  4. Taste the smoothie and add more honey if needed.
  5. Pour the smoothie into glasses and serve immediately.

This banana and date smoothie is not only delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients. Bananas are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, while dates are high in fiber, antioxidants, and minerals such as iron and magnesium. The milk and yogurt provide protein and calcium, making this smoothie a well-rounded and satisfying meal or snack.

Watermelon and Mint Lemonade:

watermelon smoothie

Watermelon and mint lemonade is a refreshing and delicious drink that is perfect for hot summer days. Here’s a simple recipe for making watermelon and mint lemonade:

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed and seeded
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup honey (or more, to taste)
  • 4 cups water
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, puree the watermelon and mint leaves until smooth.
  2. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
  3. Add the lemon juice, honey, and water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
  4. Taste the lemonade and add more honey if needed.
  5. Add ice cubes to the pitcher and stir well.
  6. Serve the watermelon and mint lemonade in glasses with extra ice cubes and mint leaves for garnish.

This watermelon and mint lemonade is not only delicious, but it is also packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Watermelon is a good source of vitamins A and C, while mint leaves are known for their calming and digestive properties. Lemon juice provides vitamin C and adds a refreshing tang to the drink. Overall, this watermelon and mint lemonade is a healthy and satisfying way to beat the summer heat.

Vanilla Almond Milkshake:

Vanilla Almond Milkshake

A vanilla almond milkshake is a rich and creamy drink that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Here’s a simple recipe for making a vanilla almond milkshake:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups vanilla ice cream
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
  2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. If the milkshake is too thick, you can add a little more almond milk to thin it out.
  4. Pour the milkshake into glasses and sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds, if desired.
  5. Serve immediately.

This vanilla almond milkshake is a delicious treat that is also relatively healthy. Almond milk is a good source of calcium, vitamin E, and healthy fats, while vanilla ice cream provides calcium and some protein. If you choose to add the sliced almonds, you will also get a boost of healthy fats and fiber. Overall, this vanilla almond milkshake is a tasty and satisfying way to indulge in a sweet treat.

Khus Sharbat:
Khus Sharbat

Khus Sharbat, also known as Khus syrup or Vetiver syrup, is a popular drink in India and Pakistan, especially during the hot summer months. It is made by boiling the roots of the Vetiver plant, which is known for its cooling properties, with water and sugar to create a sweet and refreshing syrup. Here’s a simple recipe for making Khus Sharbat:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Vetiver roots
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Water or soda water (to dilute)

Instructions:

  1. Wash the Vetiver roots thoroughly and soak them in water for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Drain the water and chop the Vetiver roots into small pieces.
  3. In a large pot, combine the chopped Vetiver roots and 4 cups of water.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes.
  5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, pressing the solids to extract all the liquid.
  6. Discard the solids and return the liquid to the pot.
  7. Add the sugar and lemon juice to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
  8. Remove the pot from heat and let the syrup cool completely.
  9. To serve, mix the Khus syrup with cold water or soda water in a 1:4 ratio.
  10. Add ice cubes and serve immediately.

Khus Sharbat is a refreshing and cooling drink that is perfect for hot summer days. The Vetiver roots are known for their cooling properties and can help soothe the digestive system and reduce body heat. Additionally, the lemon juice in the syrup provides vitamin C and adds a tangy flavor to the drink. Overall, Khus Sharbat is a healthy and delicious drink that is sure to quench your thirst and keep you cool in the summer heat.