Authentic Kamarudeen Recipe – Apricot & Orange Blossom Drink

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Kamarudeen Recipe – Apricot & Orange Blossom Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a refreshing and subtly sweet drink with a beautiful history, you’ve come to the right place. I remember my dadi (grandmother) making this Kamarudeen during the hot summer months – it was always such a treat! It’s a traditional apricot drink, especially popular during Ramadan and Eid, and honestly, it’s perfect any time you need a little cooling down. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Kamarudeen recipe is more than just a drink; it’s a little piece of nostalgia. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavour. The combination of sweet apricot and fragrant orange blossom water is just divine. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to stay hydrated, especially when the weather heats up.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful apricot drink:

• 400 gm Kamarudeen (dried apricot sheets)
• 3 cups warm water (about 720 ml)
• 1 tbsp orange blossom water
• Cold water, as required
• Pine nuts, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a couple of key ingredients!

Kamarudeen (Dried Apricot Sheets): This is the star of the show! Kamarudeen is made by pureeing apricots and drying them into thin sheets in the sun. You can usually find it at Indian grocery stores, or online. Look for sheets that are a vibrant orange colour – that’s a good sign of quality.

Orange Blossom Water: This adds such a beautiful floral aroma and flavour. It’s made from the steam distillation of orange blossoms. It’s used extensively in Middle Eastern and South Asian desserts and drinks. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it! You can find it at most well-stocked grocery stores or online.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some Kamarudeen!

1. First, shred those Kamarudeen sheets into smaller pieces. This helps them soften more quickly.
2. Place the shredded Kamarudeen in a bowl and pour in 3 cups of warm water. Let it soak for at least 2 hours, or until the apricot sheets are beautifully softened. You’ll notice the water turning a gorgeous orange colour!
3. Once softened, transfer the apricot and soaking water to a blender. Add in the orange blossom water.
4. Blend everything until it’s super smooth. You want a nice, even consistency.
5. Now, chill it out! Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This makes it extra refreshing.
6. If the Kamarudeen is too thick for your liking, add a little cold water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Pour into glasses, sprinkle with pine nuts for a lovely garnish, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Soaking Time: Don’t rush the soaking process! The longer the Kamarudeen soaks, the smoother your drink will be.
• Blending: A high-powered blender will give you the smoothest results. If you don’t have one, you might need to blend for a little longer.
• Chilling: Seriously, don’t skip the chilling step. It makes all the difference!

Variations

Want to put your own spin on things? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: If you like a little extra sweetness, add a tablespoon of sugar or honey while blending. My friend, Aisha, always adds a tiny pinch of cardamom for a warm, fragrant twist.
• Festival Adaptations: During Ramadan, it’s common to serve Kamarudeen to break the fast. It’s incredibly hydrating and provides a gentle energy boost. For Eid, you can make a larger batch and serve it to guests.
• Regional Variations: Different regions in India use slightly different types of apricots for Kamarudeen. Experiment with different varieties to find your favourite flavour!

Serving Suggestions

Kamarudeen is best served chilled, as a refreshing drink on a warm day. It’s lovely on its own, but you can also pair it with some light snacks like dates or biscuits. It’s a beautiful addition to any festive spread.

Storage Instructions

You can store leftover Kamarudeen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

What is Kamarudeen and where does it come from?

Kamarudeen is a traditional apricot drink originating from the Middle East and South Asia, particularly popular in India. It’s made from dried apricot sheets that are soaked, blended, and then enjoyed as a refreshing beverage.

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried apricot sheets?

While you can use fresh apricots, it won’t be quite the same. Kamarudeen has a unique flavour that comes from the drying process. If you do use fresh apricots, you’ll need to use a lot more of them (about 1 kg) and adjust the water accordingly.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the Kamarudeen?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding sugar, honey, or dates while blending. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.

What are the health benefits of Kamarudeen?

Apricots are a good source of Vitamin A and fiber. Kamarudeen can be a hydrating and refreshing drink, especially during hot weather.

Can I make Kamarudeen ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Enjoy making this lovely drink! I hope it brings a little bit of sunshine to your day. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!