Carob Juice & Erk Sous Recipes: Delicious Palestinian Drinks with Ancient Roots + Pre Order Ramadan Box

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, two traditional drinks take center stage in Palestinian kitchens and markets: Carob Juice (Kharoub) and Erk Sous (Licorice Juice).

These deeply rooted beverages are more than thirst-quenchers — they’re symbols of heritage, community, and nourishment that connect generations across the Mediterranean and the Levant. 

Carob Drink: A Timeless Palestinian Tradition

What Is It? 

Known locally as kharoub, the carob juice drink is a naturally sweet, caffeine-free beverage made from the pods of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) — a resilient Mediterranean native that thrives in the warm climates of Palestine and the Levant. Check out our blog here for a delicious recipe to make your very own.

Traditionally sold in markets and by street vendors, carob juice is indispensable during Ramadan, especially at Iftar, when fasting families welcome its rich, earthy taste and hydrating simplicity.

Where It Grows

Carob trees flourish in Mediterranean regions — from Palestine and Syria to Greece and Spain — adapted to semi-arid climates and poor soils, making them a sustainable staple in many traditional diets.

Health Benefits

Carob drink isn’t just delicious — it’s packed with nutrients that support well-being:

• High in fiber: Supports digestion and gut health
• Rich in antioxidants: Helps combat inflammation
• Naturally sweet & caffeine-free: A gentle, hydrating choice for fasting months.
• Mineral-rich: Provides calcium and magnesium for bone strength and metabolic health
• Heart and blood sugar support: Fiber and low glycemic properties may help cholesterol and glucose management

How Palestinians Enjoy It

Carob juice is often featured in family gatherings, Ramadan iftars, and everyday breakfasts, served cold — a nostalgic flavour that feels like home and evokes hospitality. 

Erk Sous: Sweet, Earthy Licorice Refreshment

What Is Erk Sous?

Erk Sous is a traditional licorice root beverage beloved across Egypt and parts of the Levant, including Palestine. Made by simmering licorice root with water (and often lightly sweetened), Erk Sous delivers a uniquely earthy, slightly sweet flavour that quenches thirst and cools the body. Check out our blog here for a delicious recipe to make your very own.

Cultural Significance

Though its name and preparation vary regionally, this drink is especially popular in hot climates and Ramadan rituals, valued for its hydrating and soothing properties during long fasting days.

Traditional Health Claims

Licorice root has long been prized in herbal medicine for:

• Digestive comfort: Helps soothe the stomach
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Traditionally used to calm inflammation.
• Natural sweetness: Offers flavour with minimal added sugar.

Note: Licorice should be enjoyed in moderation, especially by those sensitive to blood pressure changes. 

Why Palestinians Love These Drinks

In Palestine, these beverages aren't just refreshing — they are an important part of its culture. They:

• Connect generations through shared recipes and memories
• Celebrate resilience — made from local, drought-friendly crops
• Support Ramadan rituals, offering nourishment, hydration, and sweetness without caffeine

Pre-Sale: Ramadan Gift Box — Taste Palestine at Home

This Ramadan, bring these authentic flavors into your home with our Handmade Palestine Ramadan Gift Box — a curated collection of traditional Palestinian delights, including:

• Carob chips
• Erk Sous (licorice root)
• Sumac 7-spice blend
• Sahlab mix...and more artisan goodies sourced with care from Palestinian producers

Pre-order your Ramadan Gift Box now

Whether you’re celebrating Ramadan or exploring rich Middle Eastern traditions year-round, this box is a beautiful way to discover Palestinian heritage through taste.