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A cold, dark, intensely flavored drink made from licorice root extract — the ancient street drink of Ramadan, sold by vendors in brass urns throughout the Levant, with a flavor that is bittersweet, cooling, and unlike anything else.
⏱ 15 min🍽 6 servings📍 Lebanese coast
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The story
Erk Sous (Arabic for "licorice root") has been drunk in the Levant since antiquity. Egyptian, Syrian, and Lebanese sources document licorice sellers — called saqqa — who carried their chilled drink in large brass containers strapped across their bodies, pouring cups for passersby in the bazaars and markets. During Ramadan, the erk sous vendor is as iconic as the cannon that signals iftar: dressed in traditional garb, with their ornate brass urn on their back, they walk the souqs throughout the holy month selling cool cups of the dark drink to those ending their fast. Traditionally prized across the region for its cooling, thirst-quenching character — a cold cup after a day of summer fasting is both refreshing and ceremonially significant. Outside Ramadan, it is drunk year-round throughout Lebanon, Syria, and Egypt, concentrated and sweet.
Frequently asked questions
What is Erk Sous?
A cold, dark, intensely flavored drink made from licorice root extract — the ancient street drink of Ramadan, sold by vendors in brass urns throughout the Levant, with a flavor that is bittersweet, cooling, and unlike anything else.
Where is Erk Sous from?
Erk Sous comes from Lebanese coast. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Erk Sous vegetarian or vegan?
As written, Erk Sous uses only plant-based ingredients, so it is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Always double-check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of anise seeds in Erk Sous?
The anise seeds called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Erk Sous its traditional character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Erk Sous?
In a Levantine drinks spread, Erk Sous is served as a refreshment on its own, warm or chilled as the recipe directs.
Can I make Erk Sous ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
This can be made ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator. Stir or shake before serving, and adjust sweetness or dilution to taste.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step audio narration (text-to-speech) guides you hands-free. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
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