Skip to main content

Nabeez Drink (Sunnah): Dates Water Benefits, Recipe & Safety

Nabeez drink benefits and recipe: Sunnah dates water soaked overnight
Nabeez (Nabidh): a Sunnah drink—dates or raisins soaked in water for 8–12 hours.

Nabeez Drink (Sunnah): Dates Water Benefits, Recipe & Safety

Quick Answers

  • What is Nabeez? A Sunnah drink made by soaking dates or raisins in water for 8–12 hours. Drink it fresh the next day.
  • How to make? Soak 3–5 pitted dates or a small handful of raisins in 250–350 ml water in a covered jar. Strain and drink.
  • Can I mix dates and raisins? Traditional guidance says no; use one fruit per batch.
  • Best time to drink? Suhoor/Iftar in Ramadan, first thing in the morning, or 30–60 minutes before a workout.
  • How long does it keep? 24–48 hours in the fridge. Discard if sour or fizzy (possible fermentation).
  • Is it good for people with diabetes? Nabeez contains natural sugars. Monitor portions and consult your clinician.

Introduction

Nabeez—also spelled Nabidh—is a simple, nourishing infusion created by soaking dates or raisins in water overnight. It is cherished for its spiritual significance and for its practical, everyday usefulness. The recipe could not be easier, yet the drink has a loyal following because it delivers gentle natural sweetness, a short ingredient list, and a format that is kind to the stomach when you are fasting or easing into your morning routine. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to prepare Nabeez confidently and safely, along with tips on timing, storage, and common pitfalls to avoid.

What Is Nabeez? Origin & Sunnah Context

The Arabic term “Nabidh” refers to fruit steeped in water. In the Prophetic tradition, the preferred fruits are dates or raisins. Households typically prepare Nabeez in the evening and consume it the next day before any changes in flavor or smell indicate fermentation. This simple method extracts flavor and water-soluble components from the fruit, creating a mildly sweet, hydrating beverage. Many families prepare it during Ramadan for Suhoor and Iftar, appreciating its simplicity and gentle energy.

Sunnah Etiquette: Covering, Not Mixing & Avoiding Fermentation

  • Cover the jar: Keep the container covered to protect from dust and maintain good etiquette around food and drink.
  • Use one fruit per batch: Prepare dates or raisins—not both together. If you want both, make two jars.
  • Consume while fresh: Nabeez is best within 24–48 hours. Sour or fizzy notes suggest fermentation—discard immediately.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Nabeez

Ingredients (per serving)

  • 3–5 soft, pitted dates (Ajwa is revered, but any quality variety works) or 20–30 g raisins
  • 250–350 ml clean drinking water

Method

  1. Choose one fruit: dates or raisins (don’t mix).
  2. Rinse fruit. Pit dates if needed so the water infuses evenly.
  3. Place fruit in a clean, covered glass jar. Add water.
  4. Soak for 8–12 hours at room temperature or in the fridge.
  5. Strain into a glass and drink slowly. Optionally eat the softened fruit.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers and finish within 24–48 hours.

Batch tip: For a family jar, use ~20–25 dates per liter of water. Keep the “one fruit per jar” rule.

Pro Tips, Variations & Flavor Ideas

  • Fruit quality matters: Softer, fresh dates infuse faster. Darker raisins yield deeper color.
  • Keep additions minimal: If desired, add a single cracked cardamom pod beside the fruit for a gentle aroma. Avoid heavy spices or sugar to preserve simplicity.
  • Don’t boil: Nabeez is an infusion, not a syrup. Heat changes the character and can reduce freshness.
  • Second soak: You can add fresh water once after the first pour for a milder second glass within the same day.

Nutrition & Science Snapshot

Dates and raisins supply potassium, small amounts of magnesium and calcium, B vitamins such as B6, and dietary fiber when you eat the softened fruit. The water captures some water-soluble components; the fruit itself contributes most of the fiber. Both fruits contain natural polyphenols—plant compounds with antioxidant properties. While exact nutrient values vary by variety and ripeness, using clean, quality fruit and consuming Nabeez fresh is a practical way to support hydration and a balanced eating pattern.

Health Benefits (Hydration, Digestion, Energy)

1) Hydration with Gentle Energy

The base is water, and the fruit adds natural sugars and electrolytes like potassium. Many people find this combination gives a steady lift without the crash from heavily processed drinks.

2) Easier on the Stomach

Because Nabeez is mild and low in fat, it is a gentle first sip at Iftar or after waking. Sipping slowly helps your digestive system transition before a full meal.

3) Fiber & Regularity

Eating the soaked fruit adds fiber that supports regular bowel movements and helps you feel satisfied. If you are new to higher fiber, start with small portions and drink water through the day.

4) A Minimal-Ingredient Alternative

Nabeez contains only fruit and water. It’s a simple swap for sugary soft drinks or energy beverages with long ingredient lists.

5) Antioxidant Support

Dates and raisins naturally contain polyphenols. Enjoying them as part of a varied diet adds to your overall intake of plant compounds.

Women’s Health: Iron, Bones, Pregnancy, Skin

  • Iron & energy support: Dates and raisins provide iron in modest amounts along with carbohydrates—useful for energy. Individual iron needs vary; seek clinician guidance if you have anemia or are pregnant.
  • Bone-friendly minerals: Potassium and small amounts of magnesium and calcium contribute to a bone-supportive dietary pattern alongside strength training and adequate protein.
  • Late-pregnancy considerations: Some people choose dates in late pregnancy as part of their meals. Discuss timing and portions with your obstetric provider to match your personal plan.
  • Skin & general wellness: Hydration and whole-food patterns support overall well-being; there is no single “skin cure,” but smart habits add up.

When to Drink: Ramadan, Morning, Pre-Workout

  • Suhoor: One glass offers fluid and gentle energy for the fasting day ahead.
  • Iftar: Start with Nabeez to rehydrate, then move to a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Morning: Many enjoy Nabeez on an empty stomach as a calm start to the day.
  • Pre-workout: Sip 30–60 minutes before training for quick, easy-to-digest energy.

Safety: Storage, Fermentation, Who Should Be Careful

  • Natural sugars: Dates/raisins are sweet. If you have diabetes or insulin resistance, monitor portions and check your glucose response.
  • Potassium: If you are on a potassium-restricted plan or have kidney concerns, ask your clinician how Nabeez fits your diet.
  • Food safety: Keep the jar clean and covered. Refrigerate after straining. Discard if smell or taste turns sour or fizzy.
  • Dental care: Rinse your mouth after sweet drinks or fruit. Follow your dentist’s brushing advice.
  • Children: Offer age-appropriate portions; avoid choking hazards from whole fruit.

Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting

  • Mixing fruits: Use dates or raisins—don’t combine. If you want both, prepare two jars.
  • Over-soaking: Soak 8–12 hours. Very long soaks increase the risk of off-flavors and fermentation.
  • Uncovered jars: Always cover to keep things clean.
  • Stale fruit: Old or very dry fruit infuses slowly. Use fresher, softer dates or plump raisins.
  • Too warm storage: If your kitchen is hot, prefer refrigerator soaking to keep the flavor clean.

Nabeez vs. Infused Water & Smoothies

Nabeez vs. infused water: Both hydrate, but Nabeez uses dates/raisins and you also eat the softened fruit for fiber. Citrus/herb waters are lighter in energy and micronutrients.

Nabeez vs. smoothies: Smoothies can deliver more fiber and calories quickly, but they need a blender and often several ingredients. Nabeez is simpler and gentler to sip, especially when breaking a fast.

Buying Guide: Picking Dates/Raisins & Clean Prep

  • Choose reputable sources: Look for clean packaging, recent harvest dates, and minimal added oils or sugars.
  • Varieties: Ajwa is revered; Medjool is soft and caramel-like; Deglet Noor is drier and budget-friendly. For raisins, darker varieties infuse deeper color.
  • Storage: Keep dates in a cool spot or the fridge for longer freshness. Store raisins airtight to prevent drying out.
  • Prep hygiene: Rinse fruit briefly, use a clean jar, and wash hands/equipment.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

Can I drink Nabeez every day?

Yes, if it fits your dietary needs and energy goals. Balance it with whole foods, vegetables, proteins, and movement.

Is Ajwa mandatory for Nabeez?

No. Ajwa is beloved, but any good, soft date or quality raisins work. Choose the freshest you can find.

Can I sweeten Nabeez?

It is naturally sweet. Adding sugar defeats the purpose of a simple, two-ingredient drink.

What if I forgot to strain in the morning?

Strain as soon as you remember and refrigerate. If the aroma is off or fizzy, discard and make a fresh batch.

Does Nabeez help with weight loss?

Nabeez is not a weight-loss product. It can replace ultra-processed drinks with a simpler option. Outcomes depend on overall diet and activity.


About the Author

Mohammad Abid Hurzuk is an entrepreneur and author who writes about practical, tradition-inspired nutrition and the dates (khajoor) industry. He focuses on clear, actionable guidance that helps readers make simple, healthy choices.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing your diet, especially if you have conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Related searches: how to make Nabeez at home step by step, Ajwa dates water benefits, Sunnah Nabeez recipe for Suhoor and Iftar, Nabeez drink benefits for women and men, can diabetics drink Nabeez, Nabeez vs infused water, best dates for Nabeez.

Comments