Cozy Palestinian Drinks for Winter: Sahlab, Sage Tea, Anise
As the days get shorter, Palestinian kitchens turn to warm drinks. They are served to guests, passed around during long conversations and made for anyone who comes home cold.
Sahlab
Sahlab is a creamy hot milk drink. It was traditionally thickened with orchid root flour, but most people now use cornstarch. Sweetened and scented with rose or orange blossom water, it is topped with cinnamon, shredded coconut and pistachios.
Maramiya
Maramiya is black tea brewed with sage leaves and served sweet in small glasses. It is probably the most common drink in Palestinian homes and is often said to settle the stomach.
Yansoon
Yansoon is made by simmering anise seeds in water. It has a gentle licorice flavor and is a go-to drink when someone has a cold.
Easy recipes
For sahlab, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch into 2 cups of cold milk, add sugar to taste and heat slowly, stirring until thick. Add a splash of rose water and your toppings. For maramiya, drop two or three sage leaves into a pot of black tea and let it steep.
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FAQ
+What does sahlab taste like?
Like a warm, drinkable vanilla-style pudding, with floral notes from rose or orange blossom water.
+Can I make sahlab without orchid flour?
Yes. Most home cooks use cornstarch today.
+What is Palestinian sage tea called?
Maramiya, which is black tea brewed with sage leaves.
+What is yansoon good for?
It is a traditional warming drink, often given to people with a cold.
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