Almond Milk, known as Sharbat in Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, is a deliciously refreshing and nourishing drink. It has been a cherished beverage for centuries due to its rich flavor, cooling properties, and health benefits. Unlike the store-bought almond milk found in supermarkets, this traditional homemade Sharbat is sweetened, often flavored with cardamom, saffron, or rose water, and served chilled to provide a soothing experience on a warm day.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process of making authentic Almond Milk Sharbat at home, using natural ingredients that add depth and flavor to this classic drink. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it as a healthy alternative to dairy milk or as a refreshing treat, this recipe will help you recreate a delicious traditional drink with ease.
Ingredients for Making Almond Milk Sharbat
To make almond milk sharbat, you’ll need just a few simple and natural ingredients that are rich in flavor and nutrients.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup almonds: Raw and unsalted, soaked overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- 4 cups water: To blend with the almonds and create the base of the almond milk.
- 3-4 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar: For sweetness, though you can adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder: For a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the almond milk.
- 1 tablespoon rose water or orange blossom water: Adds a floral fragrance to the sharbat, giving it an authentic Middle Eastern touch.
- A pinch of saffron threads (optional): Adds a luxurious flavor and golden hue to the drink.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances the flavor.
For Garnishing
- Chopped pistachios or almonds: For a bit of crunch.
- Dried rose petals or a sprinkle of saffron threads: For decoration and extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Almond Milk Sharbat
1. Prepare the Almonds
- Soak the Almonds: Place the almonds in a bowl and cover them with water. Allow them to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Soaking softens the almonds, making them easier to blend and digest, and enhances their nutrient availability.
- Peel the Almonds: Once soaked, drain the water and peel the almonds. The skins should slip off easily. Peeling the almonds helps achieve a smoother texture for the sharbat.
2. Blending the Almonds
- Blend the Almonds and Water: In a blender, add the peeled almonds and 4 cups of fresh water. Blend on high until the almonds are completely broken down and the mixture is smooth and milky. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Strain the Almond Milk: To achieve a silky texture, strain the almond milk through a nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl. Squeeze or press out as much liquid as possible. This will leave you with a creamy, smooth almond milk and almond pulp (which can be reserved for other uses like baking).
3. Sweeten and Flavor the Sharbat
- Add Sweeteners and Flavors: Pour the almond milk back into the blender. Add your choice of sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or sugar), cardamom powder, rose water, and a pinch of salt. If you’re using saffron, dissolve the threads in a tablespoon of warm water for a few minutes before adding to the mixture. Blend for another minute to combine all the flavors.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the sharbat and adjust the sweetness or flavorings as desired. The drink should have a light, fragrant flavor with a delicate sweetness.
4. Chill and Serve
- Chill the Sharbat: Once blended, transfer the almond milk sharbat to a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the drink extra refreshing when served.
- Serve the Sharbat: When ready to serve, stir the sharbat well and pour into glasses over ice (optional). Garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds and a sprinkle of dried rose petals or saffron threads for an elegant touch.
Variations of Almond Milk Sharbat
1. Almond and Date Sharbat
For a naturally sweetened version, add 4-5 pitted dates to the blender along with the soaked almonds. This will enhance the richness and add a natural caramel flavor to the sharbat.
2. Almond and Coconut Sharbat
For a tropical twist, replace half of the water with coconut milk. This adds a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with the almonds.
3. Spiced Almond Milk Sharbat
To add more warmth and spice, include a small piece of cinnamon stick and a couple of whole cloves while blending the almonds. Strain as usual and add a touch of nutmeg for a more complex flavor profile.
Benefits of Drinking Almond Milk Sharbat
1. Rich in Nutrients
Almond milk is a rich source of vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats. The natural sweeteners and spices used in the sharbat also bring their own health benefits, like antioxidant properties from saffron and digestive support from cardamom.
2. Dairy-Free and Vegan
This homemade almond milk sharbat is completely dairy-free, making it suitable for those who are lactose-intolerant, vegan, or looking for a plant-based beverage.
3. A Hydrating Summer Drink
Chilled almond milk sharbat is an excellent choice for hot weather as it cools you down and provides hydration. The addition of rose water and orange blossom water makes it especially refreshing and soothing.
Tips for Making the Perfect Almond Milk Sharbat
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Always use fresh, raw almonds and pure rose water or orange blossom water for the best flavor. Avoid almonds that are roasted or salted, as they can alter the taste of the sharbat.
2. Customize Sweetness
The amount of sweetener is completely customizable. Add more or less based on your taste preferences, or experiment with different sweeteners like agave syrup or date syrup.
3. Properly Strain the Almond Milk
Straining the milk through a fine nut milk bag or cheesecloth is essential to get a smooth and silky texture. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can skip straining for a more « rustic » version of the drink.
FAQs About Almond Milk Sharbat
1. Can I store almond milk sharbat?
Yes, homemade almond milk sharbat can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Shake or stir well before serving, as natural separation may occur.
2. Is it necessary to peel the almonds?
Peeling the almonds is recommended for a smoother texture and a milder taste. However, if you don’t mind a slightly grainier drink, you can leave the skins on.
3. Can I make the sharbat without a blender?
A blender is essential to fully break down the almonds and extract their flavor. If you don’t have a blender, you could try using a food processor, though the texture may not be as smooth.
4. What can I do with the leftover almond pulp?
The leftover almond pulp can be dried and used in baking, added to smoothies, or used as a base for energy bars. It’s a versatile ingredient that’s great for reducing waste.
5. Can I make a sugar-free version?
Absolutely! You can omit the sweetener entirely or use a sugar-free substitute like stevia or erythritol to make the sharbat suitable for low-carb diets.
6. How can I make the sharbat creamier?
For a creamier texture, use less water when blending the almonds (about 3 cups instead of 4). You can also add coconut milk or a spoonful of almond butter to thicken the drink.
Conclusion
Almond Milk Sharbat is a beautiful blend of flavors that are both refreshing and nutritious. Its floral notes from rose water, the warmth of cardamom, and the luxurious hint of saffron make it a truly special beverage to enjoy on any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cooling drink to beat the heat or simply a delicious way to enjoy plant-based milk, this Almond Milk Sharbat will quickly become a favorite in your home.