Ramadan, the holy month observed by Muslims worldwide, is a time for reflection, prayer, and communal spirit. As families gather to break their fast, a refreshing and naturally sweet beverage can add a delightful touch to the Iftar table. In this article, we will explore a step-by-step guide to crafting a homemade carob beverage, a perfect addition to your Ramadan festivities.

To watch the cooking video, click on the link: Carob Juice Recipe: The Easiest Natural Beverage for Ramadan 2024

Ingredients:

1-200 grams of dried carob

2-Sugar (to taste, with a suggested starting point of 4 tablespoons)

3-1.5 liters of room temperature water

Now, armed with these simple yet high-quality ingredients, let's embark on the journey of creating a delightful Ramadan beverage that not only satisfies the taste buds but also aligns with the health-conscious spirit of the holy month.

Introduction:

Section 1: The Significance of Ramadan:

Ramadan holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims, symbolizing a month of spiritual growth, self-discipline, and gratitude. As families come together to observe daily fasting, it becomes essential to replenish energy levels with nourishing and flavorful treats.

Section 2: Introduction to Carob:

Carob, a naturally sweet and nutritious alternative to chocolate, provides an excellent base for a Ramadan beverage. Rich in fiber and antioxidants, carob aligns with the health-conscious choices often emphasized during this sacred month.

Section 3: Crafting the Carob Beverage - A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gathering Ingredients

  Begin by collecting 200 grams of dried carob, ensuring its high quality for a superior taste.

Step 2: Preparation

Place the dried carob in a pot over medium heat, setting the stage for the creation of a luscious beverage.

Step 3: Sweetening to Taste

Add sugar according to your preference; a suggested starting point is 4 tablespoons for a delightful sweetness.

Step 4: Caramelization

Stir the sugar on low heat until it caramelizes, imparting a rich, brown hue to the beverage.

Step 5: Infusing Flavor

After 5 minutes, introduce one and a half liters of room temperature water, enhancing the mixture's depth and aroma.

Step 6: Boiling and Straining

Bring the water to a boil, remove any foam that surfaces, and let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Afterward, cool the concoction for an hour and strain it to achieve a smooth texture.

Section 4: Serving Suggestions

Once prepared, the carob beverage can be customized to individual preferences. The natural brown color adds a visual appeal to your Iftar spread, and for those with a sweet tooth, additional sugar can be incorporated. The finished beverage can be stored in the refrigerator and served cold with ice, creating a delightful and refreshing Ramadan treat.

Incorporating a homemade carob beverage into your Ramadan traditions adds a touch of warmth and sweetness to the month-long observance. As families gather to break their fast, this nutritious and flavorful drink offers a unique and delightful option, fostering a sense of togetherness and joy during this sacred time. Enjoy the rich taste of carob, a natural and wholesome choice for your Ramadan celebrations.

Nutrition Value:

Dried Carob (200 grams):

  - Calories: Approximately 686 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 176 grams

  - Sugars: About 137 grams

  - Cholesterol: None

Benefits: Rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Carob is known to support digestion and provide a natural sweetness without the need for added sugars.

Sugar (4 tablespoons, suggested starting point):

  - Calories: Approximately 194 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 50 grams

  - Sugars: Approximately 50 grams

  - Cholesterol: None

Benefits: While sugar primarily adds sweetness to the beverage, it contributes to the overall energy content. However, it's advisable to control sugar intake for those mindful of their sugar consumption.

Room Temperature Water (1.5 liters):

  - Calories: None

  - Carbohydrates: None

  - Sugars: None

  - Cholesterol: None

Benefits: Water is essential for hydration and supports various bodily functions. It contributes no calories or additives, making it a crucial component for maintaining overall health.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands or variations in the ingredients used. Additionally, the nutritional information for sugar is based on granulated white sugar, and the suggested starting point can be adjusted according to individual taste preferences.