or Nabeez
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Soaking Time: 8–12 hours
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: Approximately 8 hours 10 minutes to 12 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 8–10 soft Medjool dates (or 12–15 smaller dates), pitted
- 4 cups cold filtered water
- 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
- ½ teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- 2–3 cardamom pods, lightly crushed (optional)
- Lemon slices, for serving (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Alternative Version
Instead of dates, you may use:
- ½ cup raisins
- 4 cups filtered water
Some people also enjoy combining both dates and raisins for a richer flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Large glass jar or pitcher
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Serving glasses
- Spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Wash the dates gently under cool running water to remove any dust.
Remove the pits if they are not already pitted.
If using large Medjool dates, slice them in half to help release more flavor into the water.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Jar
Place the prepared dates into a clean glass pitcher or jar.
If using cinnamon or cardamom, add them now.
Pour the filtered water over the dates.
Stir gently.
Cover the container with a lid or clean cloth.
Step 3: Soak
Allow the dates to soak at room temperature for 6–8 hours, or refrigerate for 8–12 hours for a chilled beverage.
During soaking, the dates naturally soften and release their sweetness into the water.
Avoid soaking for more than 24 hours, as the drink may begin to ferment.
Step 4: Finish the Drink
Remove the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods if used.
You may leave the softened dates in the drink or strain them for a clearer beverage.
Add rose water or orange blossom water if desired.
Stir gently.
Step 5: Serve
Pour Nabeez into serving glasses.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a thin lemon slice if desired.
Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.
The soaked dates can also be eaten alongside the drink or blended into smoothies.
Tips for the Best Nabeez
- Use soft, high-quality dates for the richest flavor.
- Filtered water provides the cleanest taste.
- Refrigerated soaking results in a cooler, refreshing drink.
- Consume within 24 hours to maintain freshness.
- Store in a covered glass container rather than metal for the best flavor.
- Taste before serving and adjust with additional water if a lighter flavor is preferred.
Recipe Variations
Raisin Nabeez
Replace the dates with golden or dark raisins for a lighter, fruitier flavor.
Date and Raisin Blend
Combine dates and raisins for a naturally sweet and well-balanced drink.
Citrus Nabeez
Add thin slices of lemon or orange during soaking for a refreshing citrus note.
Spiced Nabeez
Infuse the drink with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, or cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor.
Herbal Nabeez
Add fresh mint leaves or a few basil leaves before serving for a cooling finish.
Blended Nabeez
Blend the soaked dates with the soaking water to create a thicker, smoothie-like beverage rich in fiber.
Serving Suggestions
Nabeez pairs well with:
- Fresh fruit
- Whole-grain toast
- Oatmeal
- Yogurt with nuts
- Cheese and olives
- Grilled chicken
- Rice dishes
- Vegetable salads
- Stuffed flatbreads
- Light desserts
It is especially popular as part of Suhoor or Iftar meals during Ramadan.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store Nabeez in a covered glass pitcher for up to 24 hours.
Because it contains naturally occurring sugars, it should be consumed while fresh.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture and fresh flavor of the drink.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Soaking the dates for longer than 24 hours.
- Using old or dry dates with little natural sweetness.
- Leaving the drink uncovered while soaking.
- Using chlorinated tap water if it affects the flavor.
- Forgetting to remove pits before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nabeez?
Nabeez is a traditional beverage made by soaking dates or raisins in water until the water becomes naturally sweet and infused with their flavor.
Can I use raisins instead of dates?
Yes. Raisins are commonly used and produce a lighter, slightly tangy drink.
Does Nabeez contain added sugar?
No. The sweetness comes entirely from the natural sugars in the fruit.
Can I blend the soaked dates?
Yes. Blending creates a thicker beverage with additional fiber and a richer texture.
How long can Nabeez be stored?
For the best quality, drink it within 24 hours of preparation and keep it refrigerated once soaked.
Expert Tips
- Medjool dates provide a rich caramel-like sweetness, while Deglet Noor dates create a lighter flavor.
- Chilling the drink before serving enhances its refreshing taste.
- For an elegant presentation, garnish with a sprig of mint and a thin slice of lemon or orange.
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, lightly mash the soaked dates before straining.
- Always prepare Nabeez in a clean container to preserve freshness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values based on a recipe made with dates and no optional flavorings.
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Protein: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Natural Sugars: 19 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Potassium: 230 mg
- Calcium: 18 mg
- Iron: 0.4 mg
- Magnesium: 16 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.1 mg
