Healthy Sahlab With Low-Fat Milk and Date Syrup: 180 kcal
Sahlab is the go-to drink on cold winter nights. The café version is loaded with sugar and cream. We make it with low-fat milk and a spoon of date syrup — still creamy and warming, with roughly half the calories.
Why it's lighter
- Low-fat milk instead of full-fat milk and cream
- Date syrup instead of white sugar
- One cup with just a sprinkle of nuts
Healthy Sahlab
Ingredients
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 2 tbsp cornflour
- 2 tbsp date syrup
- 1/4 tsp rose water (optional)
- A pinch of cinnamon
- 1 tbsp chopped pistachio or walnut
Method
- Dissolve the cornflour in half a cup of cold milk.
- Heat the rest of the milk over medium heat and whisk in the cornflour mix.
- Stir for 5–6 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Add the date syrup and rose water and pour into two cups.
- Top with cinnamon and pistachio and serve hot.
Tip
For a thicker café-style sahlab, add half a spoon more cornflour rather than more sugar.
What is original sahlab?
Original sahlab is made from the powdered root of the salep orchid, which is rare and expensive. Most sahlab in cafés and homes today uses cornflour and tastes very close.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make it with almond milk?
Yes, it comes out a little lighter — add a quarter spoon more cornflour to thicken it.
Is it okay for diabetics?
It contains date syrup and starch, so keep it to a small cup with no sweet toppings. Ask your doctor about the right amount for you.
Can I make it ahead?
It thickens as it cools. Reheat with a splash of milk and whisk well before serving.
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⚠️ For general education only. If you have a health condition or allergy, consult your doctor.