Drinks
Sharbat-e Sekanjabin (Mint and Vinegar Syrup Drink)
Ingredients
- 400 g (2 cups) sugar
- 250 ml (1 cup) water
- 80 ml (1/3 cup) white wine vinegar
- 20 g (1 cup) fresh mint leaves
- Cold water and ice, to serve
- Cucumber sticks, to serve (optional)
Method
- Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened into a light syrup.
- Stir in the vinegar and mint leaves, and simmer for a further 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, let steep for 10 minutes, then strain out the mint leaves.
- Cool completely, then transfer the syrup to a bottle and refrigerate.
- To serve, mix 2-3 tablespoons of syrup with a glass of cold water and ice, adjusting to taste; serve with cucumber sticks if desired.
Introduction: Sekanjabin is an ancient Persian sweet-and-sour syrup made from sugar, vinegar and mint, dating back over a thousand years to early Persian medicinal and culinary traditions.
Cultural Background: Sekanjabin is an ancient Persian sweet-and-sour syrup made from sugar, vinegar and mint, dating back over a thousand years to early Persian medicinal and culinary traditions. Diluted with cold water, it makes a refreshing summer drink and is sometimes served with fresh cucumber sticks or shaved ice (faloodeh-style) for dipping.
Tips: Adjust the vinegar amount to taste — sekanjabin should be tangy but balanced, not overpoweringly sour. The syrup keeps well and can be made in advance in larger batches for easy serving.
Variations: Some versions include grated cucumber directly in the diluted drink for extra freshness. A pomegranate variation adds pomegranate molasses to the syrup for colour and tartness. Naturally vegan.
Storage: The syrup keeps refrigerated in a sealed bottle for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Not applicable — served cold.
FAQs:
Q: What does sekanjabin taste like?
A: A balanced sweet-and-sour flavour with a cooling mint finish.
Q: Can I use apple cider vinegar?
A: Yes, though white wine vinegar gives the more traditional, cleaner flavour.
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