Name: Delightfully Refreshing Carob Juice for Hot Summer Days
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Dried Carob (The star of the recipe, providing natural sweetness and unique flavor.); ¼ cup Maple Syrup (Enhances the sweet notes of carob.); 4 cups Water (Choose clean, filtered water for best outcome.); 1 teaspoon Rose Water (Adds a delightful floral touch to the juice. Optional.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Can you hear the sizzling sun above, beckoning for something cool to sip? Enter Kharoub, or carob juice, a cherished Lebanese drink that’s about to redefine your summer refreshment game. With its slightly sweet, earthy flavor, this vegan delight not only quenches your thirst but also whisks you away to sun-drenched markets where carob pods hang, ready to be transformed into something magical. What makes this recipe even better? It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for last-minute gatherings. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness to match your personal taste—no more settling for store-bought drinks! Are you ready to indulge in this unique taste of Lebanon? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Carob Juice So Special?

Unique Flavor Profile: Carob juice offers a rich, earthy taste that sets it apart from traditional fruit juices, making it a delightful alternative.

Vegan and Gluten-Free: This refreshing beverage caters to a variety of dietary needs, perfect for anyone seeking healthier options.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this drink in minutes, ensuring you have refreshments on hand for those warm summer days.

Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the maple syrup to your liking, making it a personalized treat that everyone will enjoy!

Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a family gathering or a picnic, this carob juice is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, leaving guests asking for your recipe.

Take a break from the usual refreshers and explore the magic of carob juice—it’s a delicious leap into a world of aromatic flavors and healthy ingredients!

Carob Juice Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create this refreshing drink!

For the Juice

Dried Carob (2 cups) – The star of the recipe, providing that natural sweetness and unique flavor. Substitution Note: Feel free to explore other sweeteners for different taste experiences.
Maple Syrup (¼ cup) – Enhances the sweet notes of carob. Substitution Note: You can use white sugar or a simple syrup instead; adjust according to your taste.
Water (4 cups) – Essential for extracting flavors from the dried carob pods. No substitutions needed; choose clean, filtered water for the best outcome.
Rose Water (1 teaspoon, optional) – Adds a delightful floral touch to the juice. Substitution Note: You can omit it or try another floral essence if you prefer.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Carob Juice

Step 1: Prepare the Carob
Begin by chopping 2 cups of dried carob pods into small pieces, including the seeds. This will maximize their surface area and enhance the flavor extraction process. If you are using whole pods, a sharp knife will help achieve small, manageable chunks. Set aside your chopped carob while you gather the remaining ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large pot, combine the chopped carob, ¼ cup of maple syrup, and 4 cups of clean, filtered water. Place the pot over medium-high heat and stir gently to mix all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, which should take about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the carob starting to soften and release its rich aroma.

Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for approximately 30 minutes. This simmering process will help extract the unique flavors from the carob pods, turning the liquid into a deeply aromatic carob juice. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Stir in Rose Water
After 30 minutes of simmering, remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of rose water, if desired. The rose water will add a beautiful floral note to your carob juice, enhancing its refreshing qualities. Give it a gentle stir, allowing the flavors to meld together before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Cool the Mixture
Let the carob juice cool down to room temperature. This cooling phase is essential as it allows the flavors to infuse further and intensify. Depending on your kitchen’s temperature, this may take about 15-20 minutes. You’ll notice the liquid darkening to a rich brown hue, signaling it’s ready for the next step.

Step 6: Strain the Juice
Using a muslin cloth or fine mesh strainer, strain the cooled carob mixture into a large jug or pitcher. This step ensures that any solids are removed, leaving you with a smooth, silky carob juice that is free from graininess. Press gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible for maximum flavor.

Step 7: Chill and Serve
Finally, chill the strained carob juice in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving over ice. This refreshing drink is best enjoyed cold, especially on hot summer days. When it’s time to serve, pour over ice cubes and relish the rich, earthy flavors of your homemade carob juice.

Expert Tips for Carob Juice

Strain Thoroughly: Make sure to strain the carob juice well to avoid any fine sediment. A muslin cloth works wonders for achieving a smooth texture.
Adjust Water Levels: If you find the juice has reduced too much during simmering, don’t hesitate to add more water. This will help maintain the ideal consistency without compromising the flavor.
Taste as You Go: It’s always good practice to taste the juice before serving. If you prefer a sweeter beverage, feel free to adjust the maple syrup to your liking.
Dispelling Common Mistakes: Avoid the temptation to skip the cooling step. Cooling allows the flavors to meld, creating a richer experience, so be patient!
Safety Reminder: When working with whole carob pods, be cautious while nibbling on them, as the seeds can be quite hard and may damage your teeth.

Embrace the delightful process of making your carob juice and enjoy your refreshing vegan drink!

Make Ahead Options

These refreshing carob juice preparations are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to simplify their busy days! You can chop and prepare the dried carob pods up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. For an even quicker option, you can simmer the juice and strain it ahead of time, refrigerating it for up to 3 days. This allows those rich flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time. When it’s time to serve, simply chill the strained juice for at least one hour, pour it over ice, and delight in that same delicious taste of carob juice without the last-minute fuss!

Carob Juice Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with these ideas to make our beloved carob juice perfect for your taste buds!

Minty Freshness: Add fresh mint leaves during the simmering stage for a cool burst of flavor. This will give your carob juice a refreshing twist, perfect for summer gatherings.
Citrus Kick: Squeeze in some fresh lemon or orange juice after cooling for a zesty uplift. The citrus will contrast beautifully with the earthy notes of the carob, enhancing the overall refreshment.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to create your ideal sweetness. More syrup yields a richer flavor, while less allows the natural essence of carob to shine through.
Floral Essence: Swap out rose water for orange blossom water for a delightful change. The different aromatic profile will add a unique layer to your juice.
Creamy Indulgence: For a dreamy, creamy version, blend in a splash of almond or coconut milk before chilling. This twist introduces a velvety texture that pairs wonderfully with the carob flavor.
Chili Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle spicy kick. The heat creates an exciting contrast with the sweetness of the drink, perfect for adventurous palates.
Infused Herbs: Try infusing your juice with herbs like basil or thyme for an earthy, aromatic experience. Simply add a few sprigs while simmering for an herbaceous twist!
Frozen Treat: Pour the juice into popsicle molds and freeze for a fun, refreshing treat. This twist is perfect for kids or a nostalgic way to enjoy carob on hot days.

With these variations, your carob juice experience can transform into something uniquely yours. Enjoy experimenting and delight your family and friends with each new creation!

What to Serve with Refreshing Vegan Carob Juice

Indulging in a glass of this delightful drink transports you to sun-kissed Lebanese markets—let’s make the experience even more special!

Chickpea Fritters: These crispy morsels pair wonderfully, adding savory flavors that balance the sweetness of the juice. They’re also protein-packed, making for a satisfying snack.
Homemade Hummus with Pita Chips: The creamy texture of hummus complements the smooth carob juice perfectly. Enjoy this duo as a refreshing appetizer or light meal.
Tabbouleh Salad: Bright and fresh, this herbaceous salad brings a zesty contrast that enhances the rich flavor of the carob juice, creating a refreshing and invigorating meal.
Baklava: Sweet, nutty, and flaky, this traditional dessert adds an indulgent finish to your carob juice experience. The syrupy sweetness remarkably echoes the drink’s notes, leaving a lasting impression.
Mint Tea: Sipping on mint tea alongside the juice elevates your refreshment experience. The aromatic, herbal notes of mint create a delightful layering of flavors.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like watermelon, oranges, and berries provides a refreshing crunch that celebrates the warmth of summer and complements your drink superbly.
Stuffed Grape Leaves: Savory and tangy, these delicious snacks bring a Mediterranean flair to your meal, harmonizing beautifully with the earthy notes of the carob juice.
Almond Cookies: Opt for these soft and crumbly treats for dessert. Their light nutty flavors pair well, creating an inviting sweet ending to your meal.
Iced Coffee: For those who prefer a caffeine kick, a glass of lightly sweetened iced coffee can create a unique pairing. The bittersweet notes will blend surprisingly well with the rich carob flavors.

These pairing ideas will not only delight your taste buds but also transform your gathering into an unforgettable culinary adventure!

How to Store and Freeze Carob Juice

Fridge: Store any leftover carob juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and refreshing for those subsequent servings.

Freezer: For longer storage, pour carob juice into ice cube trays and freeze. Once solid, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag and use within 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the desired amount of carob juice in the fridge overnight or place it in a warm water bath. Avoid microwaving to preserve the flavor and texture.

Serving Tip: Remember to avoid adding ice to the bulk of your juice until serving to maintain its richness and prevent dilution.

Carob Juice Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right dried carob for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting dried carob, look for pods that are firm and without dark spots all over which could indicate spoilage. If purchasing from a store, you might also want to consider buying organic varieties for the best taste and quality.

How should I store leftover carob juice?
To keep your carob juice fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. This will maintain its natural sweetness and flavor. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again!

Can I freeze carob juice for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze your carob juice, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. This is a great way to enjoy a cool treat any time!

What should I do if my carob juice tastes too bitter?
If you find your carob juice is on the bitter side, this can happen due to over-extraction during simmering. To fix it, simply adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or sweetener of your choice. You can also dilute it with a bit of water if necessary to balance the flavors.

Is carob juice safe for pets?
Very! Carob is a safe alternative to chocolate and it’s non-toxic for dogs. However, always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet. Remember, moderation is key!

Can I substitute maple syrup, and how would it affect the flavor?
Absolutely! You can use white sugar or simple syrup as a substitute for maple syrup. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile slightly; maple syrup adds a unique richness that enhances the carob’s taste. Adjust to your preferred sweetness!