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Sekanjabin

Servings: Makes approximately 1 quart
Comments:
After the month of Ramadan has passed, the month of Shawal (the 10th month) begins. The first day of Shawal is called 'Id al-Fitr, or just 'Id for short. This festival signifies the end of Ramadan. Preparations for 'Id usually begin around the last 10 days of Ramadan, and continue until 'Id day. This includes decorating houses and buying gifts for relatives. 'Id begins with a trip to the mosque. Alms are given to the poor, and everyone rejoices on this day. There is usually a party on the evening of 'Id. Since Islam bans dancing or drinking, there are no "dance parties" or alcohol beverages served. Instead, soft drinks and sherbet are served with the food. Mostly sweet foods are served on this day. One drink, Sekanjabin, which is a sweet mint drink, is served at most 'Id celebrations.


Ingredients:
4 cups granulated sugar
2 1/2 cups water
1 cup red wine vinegar
2 rounded tablespoons dry mint flakes


Instructions:
In a 3 quart saucepan, dissolve the sugar in the water. Heat to a boil, add the red wine vinegar. Let it come back to a boil. Stir in the dried mint flakes, remove from heat, cover, and let cool. (it's best to let it sit for a couple of hours.)

Strain the mint leaves out before using. Dilute the resulting syrup to taste with ice water (5-10 parts water to 1 part syrup.) Serve over ice in a tall glass. The syrup (not the diluted drink) can be stored in an airtight container without refrigeration for a couple of weeks.

Makes approximately 1 quart.


Date: September 14, 2006