Greetings beautiful people! today You will learn how to make Israeli style Sahlab.
Sahlab, also known as sachlav or salep, is a popular dessert that is often enjoyed during the winter months in Israel and the surrounding nations. It is a creamy, sweet, and comforting drink that is originally made from a unique ingredient: orchid root flour though as time has gone on, more easily accessible ingredients have taken it’s place.ย
Watch the video on how to make a soul warming vegan sahlab
Sahlab is a popular drink and dessert in Israel that has a rich and fascinating history. This sweet and creamy drink is originally made from a starchy powder extracted from the tubers of the orchid plant. The powder is then mixed with milk or water, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and cardamom. The resulting drink is often served hot and topped with nuts or coconut shavings.
In modern times, a more sustainable version is created using more readily available ingredients.ย ย
The history of sahlab can be traced back to the ancient Middle East, where it was consumed as a medicinal drink. The orchid plant from which the starchy powder is derived was believed to have healing properties, and sahlab was used to treat a variety of ailments. It was also considered an aphrodisiac and was often consumed by newlyweds.
Over time, sahlab became more popular as a dessert, and it began to spread throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean. In Israel, sahlab is a beloved treat that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is often sold by street vendors and in cafes, and it can be found in many Israeli supermarkets and specialty stores.
While traditional sahlab is made with milk, there are many vegan-friendly versions of the drink that use non-dairy milks like almond, soy, or coconut milk. These vegan versions are just as delicious as the traditional recipe, and they are a great option for people who are lactose intolerant or who follow a vegan diet.
In addition to being a tasty treat, sahlab is also a symbol of Israeli culture and tradition. It is often served during special occasions like weddings and religious holidays, and it is a staple of Israeli cuisine. Many Israelis have fond memories of drinking sahlab with their families or enjoying it at their favorite cafes.
You may have come across these instant mix boxes of Sahlab / Salep in your local Asian market. give them a try if you are feeling lazy ๐
Vegan Sahlab
Despite its popularity, sahlab is not without controversy. In some countries, the orchid plant from which the starchy powder is derived is endangered, and there are concerns about the sustainability of the sahlab industry. In Israel, efforts have been made to cultivate the orchid plant in a sustainable way, and many Israelis are working to ensure that sahlab remains a beloved part of Israeli culture for generations to come.
In conclusion, sahlab is a delicious and beloved treat in Israel that has a rich and fascinating history. From its origins as a medicinal drink to its current status as a popular dessert, sahlab has played an important role in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Whether enjoyed in its traditional form or in a vegan-friendly version, sahlab is a symbol of Israeli culture and tradition that is sure to continue to delight and inspire people for years to come.
Vegan Sahlab / Salep
Ingredients
- 3 cups plant based milk
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp rose water
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp dessiccated coconut
- 1 tbsp crushed pistachio or wallnuts
Instructions
- add 3/4 of the plant based milk to a pan saving the rest aside to make a slurry
- add the cornstarch to the remaining plant milk and stir thoroughly to make a slurry
- Add in the slurry to the pot and stir
- add in the sugar and rose water and stir until thick
- once thick, pour in a glass and sprinkle on cinnamon, coconut and crushed nuts. Enjoy!
