Qamar al-Din (Apricot Fruit Drink) – A Sweet Ramadan Tradition

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Qamar al-Din (Apricot Fruit Drink) Recipe: A Sweet and Refreshing Ramadan Tradition
Qamar al-Din is a thick and sweet apricot-based drink traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan to break the fast. Made from dried apricot paste, this drink is known for its vibrant color and natural sweetness, offering a refreshing treat after a long day of fasting. Let’s walk through a step-by-step guide to preparing Qamar al-Din at home, with tips and customization ideas to suit your taste.

Ingredients:
200 grams (7 oz) Qamar al-Din sheets (dried apricot paste)
4 cups water (for soaking the apricot paste)
2-4 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1-2 tablespoons orange blossom water or rose water (optional for a floral note)
Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for added tanginess)
Ice cubes (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apricot Paste
Chop the Qamar al-Din sheets into smaller pieces to make them easier to dissolve.
Tip: The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will soften in the water. This can save you time during preparation.
Step 2: Soak the Paste
In a large bowl, add 4 cups of warm water to the chopped Qamar al-Din pieces.
Let it soak for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to help dissolve the paste fully.
Tip: For faster results, heat the water slightly (but don’t boil) before adding the apricot paste.
Step 3: Blend the Mixture
Once the apricot paste has softened, transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Tip: If you don’t have a blender, you can whisk the mixture vigorously by hand until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Sweeten the Drink
Add 2-4 tablespoons of sugar to the blended mixture, depending on your preferred sweetness level. Stir until fully dissolved.
Tip: If you prefer a healthier version, you can substitute sugar with honey or agave syrup for natural sweetness.
Step 5: Add Flavor Enhancements
If you want to add a touch of floral fragrance, now is the time to mix in 1-2 tablespoons of orange blossom water or rose water.
You can also add the juice of one lemon for a bit of tang to balance the sweetness.
Tip: If you like more citrus flavor, you can even add some zest from the lemon peel to the drink.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the Qamar al-Din drink for at least 1 hour, allowing it to cool and thicken.
To serve, pour the chilled drink into glasses over ice cubes. You can also garnish with a fresh mint leaf or a slice of lemon for an elegant touch.
Customization Tips:
Sweetness Control:

Adjust the sugar or add other natural sweeteners like maple syrup or date syrup for a unique twist.
Fruit Mix:

Add a blend of fruits like mango or peaches to the apricot mixture for a richer, fruitier flavor. Blend the fruits with the Qamar al-Din for an added layer of complexity.
Spice It Up:

For a warm flavor, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the drink. These spices complement the apricot and give the drink a traditional Middle Eastern warmth.
Nut Milk Variation:

For a creamier texture, substitute a cup of water with almond milk or coconut milk. This will create a luscious, rich drink.
Tips for the Perfect Qamar al-Din Drink:
Soaking Time: Make sure the apricot paste fully softens before blending. This will prevent chunks and ensure a smooth consistency.
Blending: A high-speed blender will make the drink silky and smooth, giving it a luxurious feel.
Chill Time: Qamar al-Din is best served cold, so make sure to refrigerate it properly. If you’re in a rush, you can pop it in the freezer for 15 minutes, but keep an eye on it.
Serving Suggestion: Serve in a traditional glass, and add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer for extra visual appeal and a hint of spice.
Conclusion:
Qamar al-Din is a timeless beverage enjoyed across the Middle East, especially during Ramadan. This sweet apricot drink is not only delicious but also packed with natural sugars and nutrients, providing a much-needed energy boost after fasting. The versatility of this drink allows for numerous customizations, from adding floral notes to experimenting with sweetness levels and spices.

Whether you’re preparing it for a special Iftar meal or simply enjoying it as a refreshing summer drink, Qamar al-Din is a wonderful balance of tradition and flavor. With its vibrant color and thick, smooth texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.