flipDate and Fig Oasis Drink
Date and Fig Oasis Drink
Why this dish? At oases like Kadesh Barnea, water and fruits (dates, figs) restored the exhausted people's strength. This thick, sweet drink evokes those life-saving halts in the midst of wandering.
A naturally sweet drink made from ripe dates and figs crushed in fresh water, sometimes perked up with a touch of vinegar or very ripe fig for freshness. Energizing and thirst-quenching: the traveler's comfort upon reaching the oasis.
When we found an oasis, it was like finding life again. Under the palm trees, we crushed ripe dates and figs in fresh water, and we drank this thick, sweet brew that restored strength to weary legs. Drink of it too, traveler, and bless the water that never fails.
- •Ripe dates — a handful (sweetness and energy)
- •Dried or fresh figs — a few (sweetness and tangy freshness)
- •Fresh spring water — as needed (base)
Date and Fig Oasis Drink
A naturally sweet drink made from ripe dates and figs crushed in fresh water, sometimes perked up with a touch of vinegar or very ripe fig for freshness. Energizing and thirst-quenching: the traveler's comfort upon reaching the oasis.
Why this dish? At oases like Kadesh Barnea, water and fruits (dates, figs) restored the exhausted people's strength. This thick, sweet drink evokes those life-saving halts in the midst of wandering.
When we found an oasis, it was like finding life again. Under the palm trees, we crushed ripe dates and figs in fresh water, and we drank this thick, sweet brew that restored strength to weary legs. Drink of it too, traveler, and bless the water that never fails.
Ingredients (period version)
- Ripe dates — a handful (sweetness and energy)
- Dried or fresh figs — a few (sweetness and tangy freshness)
- Fresh spring water — as needed (base)
Ingredients
- Medjool dates, pitted — 8 (sweetness and energy)
- Dried figs — 4 (tangy sweetness)
- Fresh water — 750 ml (base)
- Sweet wine vinegar (optional) — 1 tsp (acidic touch)
Method
- Soak dates and figs in a little warm water for 30 minutes to soften.
- Blend (or crush thoroughly in a mortar) with some of the water until you get a puree.
- Dilute with the remaining fresh water and mix well.
- Add, if desired, a dash of sweet vinegar to brighten the taste.
- Strain if you prefer a smooth drink, or leave it thick.
- Serve well chilled.
How it was made : The date palm and fig tree were the providential fruits of the oases. The fruits were crushed in water to yield a sweet, nourishing, and easily digestible drink—a precursor to date syrup ("date honey") widespread in the ancient Near East.
The contemporary twist : Served over ice in a glass, garnished with a date and a sprig of mint: an "oasis smoothie" with no added sugar.
Sources : Book of Numbers, chapter 20 (Kadesh) · Nathan MacDonald, What Did the Ancient Israelites Eat? (2008)
Moses · Charactorium
