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Soumada

Serves 4 to 6 Beverage vegetarian, Beverages

Soumada

With roots in Crete and the surrounding Greek islands, Soumada is a traditional almond-based refreshment often savored during warm summer days. This version captures the essence of island hospitality, where olive oil flows generously, salt is pinched with instinct, and a lemon is always just an arm's length away. Unlike the bustling tourist spots, Soumada quietly finds its place on family tables, where each sip is a bridge to the past.

Soumada greets the palate with a gentle almond embrace, softened by the coolness of water and the crispness of ice. The lemon peel adds a zesty whisper, brightening the drink with its citrusy aroma. The result is a refreshing balance, capturing the sun-drenched spirit of the Greek islands in a chilled glass.

Ingredients

  • 100 mlsoumada almond syrup
  • 300 mlcold water
  • ice cubes — to serve
  • lemon peel — optional

Method

  1. Start by chilling your serving glass in the refrigerator. This will ensure that the Soumada stays refreshingly cold when served, mimicking the traditional Greek café experience.
  2. In a medium-sized pitcher, measure 100 ml of soumada almond syrup. This syrup is the heart of the drink, providing its distinctive almond flavor, so measure carefully to maintain the authentic taste.
  3. Add 300 ml of cold water to the pitcher with the almond syrup. Stir gently with a long spoon to combine the syrup and water thoroughly. The goal is to achieve a uniform mixture without losing any of the delicate almond aroma.
  4. Prepare a few ice cubes and add them to the chilled serving glass. The ice will keep the drink cold and refreshing, enhancing the overall experience.
  5. Pour the soumada mixture over the ice cubes in the glass. Ensure that the liquid flows smoothly and evenly, allowing the ice to cool the drink instantly.
  6. For a final touch, peel a small strip of lemon peel, avoiding the white pith, and gently twist it over the drink to release its oils. Drop the peel into the glass for a subtle citrus aroma that complements the almond flavor.
  7. Serve the Soumada immediately in the chilled glass. Traditionally, this drink is enjoyed on its own or with light meze, capturing the essence of a Greek taverna.
Cover of Authentic Greek Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Greek Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Greek Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Greek volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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