Talbinah

Talbinah

Recipe |

5 min Preparation Time |

15 min Cooking Time |

Talbinah

Talbinah

Recipe |

5 min Preparation Time |

15 min Cooking Time |

About this recipe

Talbinah, or variations of it, can be traced to pre-Islam Arabia, where a wholesome diet revolved around dates, dairy, and barley, which was added to breads and porridge. Now, Muslims around the world prepare talbinah, especially during Ramadan, in honor of prophetic traditions: the Prophet Muhammed often spoke of the nutritious and healing benefits of barley. Most families rely on packaged premixes to whip up a warm bowl, but it’s equally quick and easy (and far more satisfying) to make from scratch.

The Benefits

Food for the mind! Talbinah is a high carbohydrate food, rich in tryptophan and zinc, a combination that studies suggest may help to significantly ameliorate the symptoms of depression. The brain metabolizes tryptophan to serotonin, and quality carbohydrates enhance serotonin synthesis; meanwhile zinc is linked to anti-depression benefits. Barley is also a good source of fiber, vitamins (Bs and E), and sodium, selenium and magnesium, while milk adds calcium and honey bumps up the recipe’s probiotic potential.

Photo by Jeni Afuso