Middle Eastern Drinks You Should Try: From Mint Tea to Ayran

Introduction: A Taste of the Middle East in Every Sip

At Reetaj Middle Eastern Restaurant, we believe food is only one part of the cultural experience—drinks complete the story. When people think of Middle Eastern cuisine, dishes like shawarma, kebabs, and hummus often come to mind. However, the region's rich beverage culture deserves just as much attention. From the refreshing coolness of Ayran to the soothing warmth of mint tea, Middle Eastern drinks offer a unique fusion of tradition, flavor, and health benefits.

In this article, we’ll take you through the most iconic Middle Eastern beverages you should definitely try, whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler. So, grab your glass, and let’s explore!

1. Mint Tea (شاي بالنعناع)

The Essence of Middle Eastern Hospitality

No Middle Eastern meal is truly complete without mint tea. This warm, fragrant drink is commonly served as a gesture of hospitality in countries like Morocco, Lebanon, and Egypt.

Ingredients & Preparation

Mint tea typically combines green tea leaves, fresh spearmint, and sugar, brewed together and poured from high above the glass to aerate and mix the flavors.

Why You Should Try It

• Refreshing and aromatic

• Aids in digestion

• Often served before or after meals

At Reetaj, we prepare our mint tea using traditional brewing methods, ensuring you get the authentic taste with every sip.

2. Ayran (لبن)

The Yogurt-Based Cooler You Didn't Know You Needed

Next on our list is Ayran, a cool and salty yogurt-based drink that is hugely popular in Turkey, Lebanon, and Syria. While the ingredients are simple—yogurt, water, and salt—the result is incredibly refreshing, especially on hot summer days.

Perfect Companion for Savory Dishes

Ayran pairs beautifully with grilled meats and spicy dishes. It cools the palate, balances spices, and is known for aiding digestion.

At Reetaj

We serve Ayran chilled with a light sprinkle of dried mint, making it one of our customers’ favorite drink choices.

3. Jallab (جلاب)

A Sweet Taste of the Levant

Jallab is a popular Middle Eastern drink made from grape molasses, rose water, and dates. It's typically served over ice and topped with pine nuts and raisins.

Flavor Profile

Sweet and floral, Jallab offers a unique taste that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Health Perks

• Naturally high in antioxidants

• Provides a quick energy boost

• Excellent during Ramadan for breaking fast

We prepare our Jallab using traditional ingredients for a taste that feels both exotic and comforting.

4. Arabic Coffee (قهوة عربية)

More Than Just a Caffeine Boost

If you're a coffee lover, Arabic coffee (or qahwa) will steal your heart. This spiced coffee is brewed using cardamom, saffron, and sometimes clove, giving it a flavor that's both earthy and fragrant.

A Cultural Ritual

Traditionally served in small cups, Arabic coffee is central to social gatherings across the Arabian Peninsula.

Why It’s Special

• Rich in aroma

• Caffeine without the jitters

• Part of deep-rooted cultural rituals

At Reetaj, we serve Arabic coffee in its traditional form—bitter, spiced, and always poured with care.

5. Tamarind Juice (تمر هندي)

A Tangy Tradition

Made from tamarind pulp, sugar, and sometimes lemon, tamarind juice is a zesty drink widely consumed in Egypt and Syria. It’s tangy, sweet, and just a bit tart—perfect for those who love complex flavors.

Ideal During Summer or Ramadan

This drink is especially popular during Ramadan as it provides hydration and helps restore energy after fasting.

6. Rose Water Lemonade

A Floral Twist on a Classic

Infused with delicate rose water, this lemonade is a Middle Eastern spin on a globally loved beverage. The rose adds a subtle floral note that elevates the drink to something truly special.

Light and Refreshing

• Low in calories

• Natural cooling effect

• A go-to drink during warm weather

Our rose water lemonade is a customer favorite at Reetaj, often paired with grilled chicken or falafel.

7. Qamar al-Din (قمر الدين)

The Apricot Elixir

Qamar al-Din is made by soaking apricot leather in water, then blending it into a thick, golden drink. It’s especially popular in Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine.

Rich in Nutrients

• High in vitamins A and C

• Provides quick energy

• A natural digestive aid

Served cold, Qamar al-Din is both a delicious and health-conscious choice.

8. Sahlab (سحلب)

The Middle Eastern Hot Milk Drink

Sahlab is a warm drink traditionally made from orchid root powder, milk, and sugar, then topped with cinnamon, nuts, and coconut.

Comfort in a Cup

Think of it as the Middle Eastern version of hot chocolate—rich, creamy, and soul-soothing.

We serve Sahlab at Reetaj during the cooler months, offering our guests warmth and nostalgia in every cup.

9. Karak Chai (شاي كرك)

Spiced, Sweet, and Simply Addictive

Originally from South Asia, Karak Chai has been fully embraced in the Gulf region. It’s a strong tea brewed with evaporated milk and spices like cardamom and cloves.

The Pick-Me-Up You’ll Crave

• Rich in flavor

• Perfectly sweetened

• A satisfying tea experience

You’ll find it on our menu served piping hot in traditional style.

10. Laban (لبن)

Not to Be Confused with Ayran

Laban is a fermented milk drink that's slightly thicker than Ayran and is often consumed on its own or mixed with spices and herbs.

A Gut-Healthy Favorite

• Full of probiotics

• Great for gut health

• Naturally filling and nourishing

Our Laban is made in-house at Reetaj using high-quality yogurt and traditional fermentation methods.

Why Reetaj Is the Best Spot for Middle Eastern Drinks in Oshawa

At Reetaj Middle Eastern Restaurant, we don’t just serve food—we serve tradition, heritage, and hospitality. Whether you’re here for a hearty shawarma or a refreshing mint tea, every item on our menu reflects authentic Middle Eastern flavors and time-honored preparation methods.

Our drink selection has been carefully curated to provide a full cultural experience, and we invite you to explore every sip.

FAQs About Middle Eastern Drinks

1. Are Middle Eastern drinks sweet or savory?

Middle Eastern drinks can be both! For example, Jallab and Qamar al-Din are sweet, while Ayran and Laban are savory.

2. Is Arabic coffee different from regular coffee?

Yes, Arabic coffee is brewed with spices like cardamom and often has no sugar or milk, giving it a unique, spiced flavor.

3. Can I find these drinks year-round at Reetaj?

Most of our drinks are available year-round, but seasonal options like Sahlab may only be served during colder months.

4. Are these drinks healthy?

Absolutely. Many Middle Eastern drinks are rich in probiotics, antioxidants, and vitamins, making them both tasty and beneficial.

5. Do you offer vegan or dairy-free drink options?

Yes, we have several plant-based options, including mint tea, rose water lemonade, and tamarind juice.

Final Thoughts

Middle Eastern drinks are a celebration of culture, flavor, and wellness. From the salty tang of Ayran to the delicate notes of rose water lemonade, there's something for every palate. At Reetaj Middle Eastern Restaurant, we are proud to bring these timeless beverages to the heart of Oshawa, ON. Whether you're dining in or taking out, don’t forget to complete your meal with one of our traditional drinks—you won’t regret it.

Visit Reetaj Today

Craving something cool and refreshing or warm and comforting? We’ve got the perfect drink waiting for you.Come experience the Middle East, one sip at a time.

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Name: Reetaj Middle Eastern Restaurant

Address:7 Nassau St, Oshawa, ON L1J 4A3, Canada

Phone Number: +1 289-240-1515

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