Weeks and weeks of torrential rainfall in May and June turned everything green and lush in the Texas Hill Country. Now, in July, hardly a drop, with temperatures in the high 90's. Time for light meals and plenty of salads. Austin has great resources for "Farm to Market" and "Pick Your Own" gardens. Great to have, since I didn't plant a vegetable garden this year.
Refreshing drinks are also a must this time of the year. This Qamar el-Din is a Mediterranean beverage that I like to make now and then.
Qamar el-Din
One 12 oz sheet of apricot leather
3-4 cups water
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoon orange flower water
1-2 tablespoons rose water
Cut the apricot leather into small pieces, place in a pitcher or bowl, and soak overnight in the water. Next morning, transfer the contents to a blender and process until smooth. Strain it into a pitcher, add the remaining ingredients, and stir. Adjust the flavorings if needed to your taste, and chill or server over ice.
Cheers!
Ry
Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman
Recipes courtesy of: The Zenchilada
