Jallab (Syrian Date & Rose Syrup Drink)
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- Date syrup — 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Grape molasses — 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Rose water — 15 ml (1 tbsp)
- Cold water — 1 L (4 cups)
- Ice cubes
- Raisins — 2 tbsp
- Pine nuts — 2 tbsp
Method
- Whisk together the date syrup, grape molasses and rose water in a jug.
- Stir in the cold water gradually until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Soak the raisins in a little warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up, then drain.
- Pour the jallab over ice in glasses and top with raisins and pine nuts before serving.
Introduction: Jallab is one of the most iconic drinks of Ramadan in Syria, its deep amber syrup of dates, grape molasses and rose water diluted with cold water and topped with pine nuts and raisins, sold from carts on Damascus streets.
Cultural Background: Jallab is one of the most iconic drinks of Ramadan in Syria, its deep amber syrup of dates, grape molasses and rose water diluted with cold water and topped with pine nuts and raisins, sold from carts on Damascus streets.
Tips: Adjust the water to taste — jallab should be sweet but not syrupy once diluted. Serve very cold, ideally over crushed ice, for the most refreshing result.
Variations: Add a few dried apricots as an extra garnish. Use pomegranate molasses for a tarter twist.
Storage: The undiluted syrup keeps refrigerated for up to 2 weeks; dilute fresh batches as needed.
Reheating: Served cold; no reheating required.
FAQs:
Q: Where can I find jallab syrup?
A: It’s sold pre-made at Middle Eastern grocers, or you can make your own from dates and grape molasses as above.
Q: Is jallab alcoholic?
A: No, despite its rich colour, jallab is a completely non-alcoholic fruit and syrup drink.
- Date syrup — 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Grape molasses — 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Rose water — 15 ml (1 tbsp)
- Cold water — 1 L (4 cups)
- Ice cubes
- Raisins — 2 tbsp
- Pine nuts — 2 tbsp
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