Licorice Drink (Erk Sous)
Licorice drink called Erk Sous is an ancient Arabian cold beverage made from licorice root.
Servings: 4 cups
Calories: 23kcal
Ingredients
- 30 grams Licorice root shredded
- ⅛ teaspoon Baking soda (bicarb soda)
- 4 cups + 3 tbs Water
Instructions
Preparation (Oven Method)
- This method replicates the classic sun-drying technique.Activate the licorice root by mixing shredded licorice root with the baking soda in a bowl. Sprinkle over 3 tablespoons of cold water, just enough to make it slightly damp.Toss well until the mixture feels evenly damp.Spread evenly over a parchment-lined tray.Simulate “Sun Drying” - Preheat your oven to 70°C (160°F) and dry the mixture for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring halfway. The result should be dry, aromatic, and lightly golden.30 grams Licorice root, ⅛ teaspoon Baking soda
Sun Drying Method
- Mix shredded licorice root with baking soda. Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of water until evenly damp.Spread the mixture in a thin, even layer on a large pan lined with clean parchment.Place in direct sunlight for 4–6 hours or (until dry depending on your climate), turning once or twice so it dries evenly. It’s ready when completely dry and crisp to the touch.
Extraction and Serving
- Transfer the dried mixture into a straining cloth, secure it tightly, and place it in a large jug or bowl. Pour 1 liter (4 cups) of cold water over it and let it steep for at least 1 hour. Then, squeeze out all the liquid and discard the used licorice root.Refrigerate the strained liquid for 1 hour to let any fine particles settle. Carefully pour the clear drink into a clean bottle, leaving the sediment behind.Serve Erk Sous ice cold in small glasses. Traditionally, it’s poured from a height to create a frothy layer, but you can get the same effect by shaking it well in a jar before serving.4 cups + 3 tbs Water
Video
Nutrition
Serving: 1cup | Calories: 23kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 50mg | Potassium: 73mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 3g | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg