Wait until you try this delightful dried fruit compote drink, also known as khoshaf! Imagine a burst of sweet and fruity flavors swirling together to create the most irresistible drink that you won’t want to put down.
Khoshaf is perfect before or after fasting for Ramadan or serving during special holiday celebrations. And the best part? It’s super easy to whip up with just a few simple steps!
What is a Dried Fruit Compote Drink?
Khoshaf is a dried fruit compote drink made with an assortment of dried fruits and water. Left to steep, the natural sugars bleed into the water, making it sweet and flavorful.
Somewhere between a drink and a snack, this recipe is popular during Ramadan, especially in our homes! Typically, it is enjoyed for suhoor before the day begins. Or, it can be eaten after a long day of fasting.
It is meant to be good fuel to sustain you throughout the day or to recharge in the evening. Beautiful in appearance, it’s a recipe we always look forward to sipping!
Ingredients You Need
Below is an overview of the ingredients and instructions for this recipe. Be sure to scroll down to the recipe card below for the complete details!
- Dried Fruit – We use a combination of dried dates, dried apricots, dried prunes, dried figs, and golden raisins. Feel free to mix and match any combination you like best!
- Nuts – Pine nuts, slivered almonds, or walnuts serve as a garnish, adding lots of crunch and a nutty taste.
- Optional Sugar – Some people like to serve their khoshaf with a sprinkle of sugar or a drizzle of honey. We find the dates make it sweet enough, but it’s an option if you prefer recipes on the sweeter side!
Chop, Cover, Serve! The Easiest Recipe You’ll Ever Make
- Chop all the fruit into equal-sized pieces.
- Transfer the ingredients to a large bowl, and add enough water to cover the pieces completely.
- Cover, and set the mixture aside until the fruit is soft.
- Divide the fruit compote into cups or bowls, and garnish with nuts.
Tips for Success
- Make sure all your fruit is dry! Otherwise, it won’t steep properly, and you’ll just have mushy fruit water.
- Swap the water for milk if you prefer a slightly richer flavor and creamier consistency.
- Add the nuts to the fruit mixture, and allow them to steep if you prefer a softer texture.
- Use room temperature water, not cold water, or the fruit won’t soften.
Common Questions About This Dried Fruit Compote Drink
A compote features fruit cooked in water and sugar. Stewed fruit features fruit cooked slowly in water. So, they’re essentially the same things!
This recipe is best made at least six to eight hours in advance so the fruit has plenty of time to soften.
Feel free to add sugar or honey to suit your preference for sweetness! Some people also like to add fruit juice, orange blossom water, or vanilla extract.
More Ramadan Recipes
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with some more of our favorite Ramadan recipes. From savory dishes to sweet treats, we’ve got a feast waiting for you!
- Classic Qatayef with Nuts
- Shorbet Lesan El Asfour (Middle Eastern Orzo Soup)
- Egyptian Baked Rice
- Kahk Cookies (Egyptian Eid Cookies)
Dried Fruit Compote Drink (Khoshaf)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 12 dried dates pitted and diced (not fresh)
- 6 dried apricots chopped into 4 pieces
- 6 dried prunes cut in half
- 6 cups dried figs
- 1/3 cup golden raisins
- 1/2 cup pine nuts or slivered almonds, or walnuts. (See note)
Instructions
- Chop all the fruit until all the same size. Transfer to a large bowl. Add enough room temperature water just until all the fruit is covered. Cover and let stand for 6-8 hours or until all the fruit has softened.12 dried dates, 6 dried apricots, 6 dried prunes, 6 cups dried figs, 1/3 cup golden raisins
- Serve in a glass cup or bowl and garnish with optional pine nuts or almonds for garnish.1/2 cup pine nuts