Sharab el Ward (Lebanese Rose Water Syrup Drink)

Sharab el Ward is a Lebanese rose syrup diluted with cold water for a fragrant, ruby-pink drink. It’s a Ramadan table staple and a refreshing way to cool down on a hot afternoon.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons rose water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• A few drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
• Ice and cold water, for serving
• Fresh mint or rose petals, for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the syrup
   Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Simmer
   Let the syrup simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.
3. Flavor
   Stir in the rose water, lemon juice, and food coloring if using, then let the syrup cool completely.
4. Store
   Pour the syrup into a jar or bottle; it keeps in the refrigerator for up to a month.
5. Serve
   To serve, mix 2-3 tablespoons of syrup with a glass of cold water and ice, adjusting to taste.
6. Garnish
   Top with fresh mint or rose petals before serving.

A splash of syrup also brightens iced tea or sparkling water.