Enhanced Recipesculinary collection
Home
CoursesView CuisinesWhat Can I Make?My Kitchen

Sahlab or Salep, the official winter drink of the Middle East

Login to Save
Middle Eats
Middle Eats
98 recipes on Enhanced Recipes
Follow Middle Eats to prioritize their recipes in your meal plans, pantry matches, and suggestions

Recipe Information

Recipe Available
Video-Specific Recipe

Lebanese Sahlab

Cultural Context

Sahlab is a traditional Middle Eastern drink, originating from the Levant region, particularly popular in Lebanon. This comforting beverage, made from milk and sahlab powder (derived from orchid tubers), is often enjoyed during colder months and is associated with warmth and hospitality. In Lebanon, it's common to sprinkle toppings like crushed nuts and cinnamon, enhancing its rich flavor. Today, sahlab is celebrated worldwide, with various adaptations, including vegan versions using plant-based milks.

LebaneseLBdrink
15 min
easy
2 servings
Servings4
1 Cup Milk (whole preferred)
1/4 Cup Sahlab powder
Nuts
sultanas
desiccated coconut
cinnamon

sahlab powder

🥗Healthier: cornstarch

💰Cheaper: flour

Cornstarch thickens similarly and is easier to find.

rose water

🥗Healthier: orange blossom water

💰Cheaper: vanilla extract

Orange blossom water provides a floral note at a lower cost.

crushed pistachios

🥗Healthier: chopped almonds

💰Cheaper: chopped walnuts

Almonds and walnuts offer similar crunch and flavor.

1

Add the milk and Sahlab powder to a pot on medium heat.

2

Whisk together until the mixture thickens (about 5-10 minutes).

3

Pour out the sahlab into your mug and top with any desired toppings.

4

Serve while warm but be careful this stuff can burn very easily.

Cooking Techniques

heatingwhisking

Equipment Needed

potwhiskmug

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

vegetarian

Allergens

nutsdairy

Also Known As

SahlabSalep

More Lebanese Sahlab Videos

(2 videos)

Similar Lebanese Videos

(24 videos)

Similar Recipes From Other Cuisines

(24 videos)