Soumada (Cypriot Almond Syrup Drink)

Soumada is a fragrant almond syrup traditionally served at Cypriot weddings, diluted with cold water into a milky, refreshing drink. It’s naturally dairy-free and tastes like a cross between orgeat and almond milk, with a whisper of rosewater.

Ingredients

• 1 cup blanched almonds
• 3 cups water, divided
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp rosewater or orange blossom water
• Ice and cold water, for serving

Instructions

1. Blend the almonds
   In a blender, combine almonds with 1 cup of water and blend until very smooth and milky.
2. Strain the almond milk
   Pour the mixture through a fine cheesecloth-lined strainer, squeezing well to extract as much almond milk as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Make the syrup
   In a saucepan, combine the almond milk with the remaining 2 cups water and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and stir in rosewater.
4. Cool and store
   Let the syrup cool completely, then refrigerate in a sealed bottle or jar.
5. Serve diluted
   To serve, mix about 1/4 cup of soumada syrup with a glass of cold water and ice, adjusting to taste.

The syrup keeps in the fridge for up to two weeks, so it is easy to make ahead for gatherings.