Qamar Al-Din Khoshaf: Chilled Apricot and Dried Fruit Dessert Recipe

Introduction

Qamar Al-Din Khoshaf is a refreshing Middle Eastern drink made from apricot paste combined with dried fruits and nuts. This naturally sweet and flavorful beverage is perfect for warm days or as a nourishing treat during Ramadan.

Ingredients

• 150g apricot paste (Qamar Al-Din)
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, dates, and apricots)
• ½ cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, and walnuts)
• 6 cups cold water
• Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Tear the apricot paste into small pieces and soak it in 6 cups of cold water. Stir occasionally to help it dissolve completely, about 30 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, soak the dried fruits and nuts in warm water for 15 minutes, then drain.
3. Step 3: Once the apricot paste is fully dissolved, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a large pitcher to remove any pulp.
4. Step 4: Add the soaked dried fruits and nuts to the pitcher. Sweeten with honey or sugar if desired, and stir well.
5. Step 5: Chill the drink in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Add ice cubes if preferred for extra refreshment.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother drink, blend the apricot paste with water before straining instead of stirring.
• Try adding a splash of orange blossom water or rose water for a fragrant twist.
• Use different combinations of dried fruits and nuts based on what you have on hand for varied textures and flavors.

Storage

Store Qamar Al-Din Khoshaf in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving if settled. It is best enjoyed chilled, and avoid freezing as it may change the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apricots instead of apricot paste?

Fresh apricots lack the concentrated flavor and sweetness of Qamar Al-Din paste, so the taste and consistency will differ. For authentic flavor, it’s best to use apricot paste.

Is this drink suitable for diabetics?

Qamar Al-Din paste and dried fruits contain natural sugars, so those managing blood sugar should consume this drink in moderation or consult a healthcare provider.

Qamar Al-Din Khoshaf: Chilled Apricot and Dried Fruit Dessert Recipe

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4.7 from 93 reviews

Qamar Al-Din Khoshaf is a traditional Middle Eastern dried fruit dessert made from apricot paste combined with a variety of dried fruits and nuts. This refreshing and nutritious treat is soaked and chilled, making it perfect for a healthy snack or an energizing dessert especially popular during Ramadan.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including soaking and chilling)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 200 grams apricot paste (Qamar Al-Din)
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as dates, figs, raisins, prunes)
• 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, walnuts), chopped
• 2 cups cold water (or enough to soak the apricot paste)
• 2 tablespoons sugar or honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water (optional, for flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apricot Base: Cut the apricot paste into small pieces and soak them in 2 cups of cold water. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the paste softens and dissolves into a thick syrup.
2. Soak the Dried Fruits: While the apricot paste soaks, rinse the dried fruits and soak them separately in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes to soften them, then drain.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked dried fruits and chopped nuts into the apricot paste syrup. Stir well to combine all ingredients uniformly.
4. Add Sweeteners and Flavors: If desired, stir in sugar or honey to enhance sweetness, and add rose water or orange blossom water for an aromatic touch. Mix thoroughly.
5. Chill: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or individual cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until well chilled.
6. Serve: Serve cold as a refreshing dessert or snack, enjoying the natural sweetness and chewy texture of the fruits complemented by crunchy nuts.

Notes

• Adjust sweetness according to taste; the natural sugars in dried fruits often suffice.
• Using filtered or mineral water can improve the taste and clarity of the drink.
• For a vegan version, avoid honey and use sugar or natural sweeteners only.
• Soaking times may vary depending on the dryness of the fruits and apricot paste freshness.
• Chilling the khoshaf thoroughly enhances its refreshing qualities.

Keywords: Qamar Al-Din, Khoshaf, dried fruit dessert, Middle Eastern dessert, apricot paste, Ramadan dessert