Talbinah is an ancient traditional Sunnah food that was recommended by the Prophet Mohammad (SAW) for its nourishing benefits in the treatment of seven diseases (Hadith), including sorrow, high cholesterol, heart disease, and hypertension.

Talbinah is essentially a porridge made with Barley flour and milk or water. During Ramadaan we know all too well the struggle to keep our energy levels up during the day. Barley has many benefits including being slow to digest, which keeps us fuller for longer.

It was narrated that Aisha (R.A.), the Prophet Mohammed’s wife, would order that talbinah be made for the sick and the one who was mourning a death, and she used to say: “I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace be upon him) say: “Talbinah soothes the heart of the sick and takes away some of the grief.”

Talbinah flour is relatively easy to find at spice shops nowadays. Much like oats it can be sweetened and topped with fruit, nuts or other toppings of your choice. It’s very quick to prepare and can be ready within 10 minutes. The only trick is mixing the flour and water quickly, much like a white sauce to avoid lumps forming.

Talbinah

4 Tbsp unroasted Talbinah flour
2 cups milk
1-2 Tbsp honey

In a thick bottomed saucepan, dry roast the Talbinah powder over low to medium heat till it just starts turning light brown.
Add the milk a half cup at a time whisking all the time to prevent lumps.
Allow it to come to a simmer and thicken. It will thicken more on cooling. Sweeten with honey and serve with or without toppings.

Fried Dates Topping
4 or 5 soft dates chopped roughly
1 tsp butter or ghee
Toasted dessicated coconut

Melt butter in a small pan. Add the dates and saute for a few minutes till they turn soft and slightly mushy. Serve straight away on top of the Talbinah and sprinkle with toasted coconut.