Tag: Winter drink

Sahlab, also known as salep, contains a polysaccharide called glucomannan, which has been studied for its potential health benefits, particularly for digestive wellness. Traditionally prepared from the ground tubers of certain orchids, the drink's rich history is matched by its nutritional value, offering various benefits of Sahlab beyond its comforting warmth.

Originally made from the ground tubers of wild orchids, salep is known by several names across different regions. This warm, creamy winter beverage has been a staple in parts of the Middle East, the Ottoman Empire, and even historical England, where it was known as saloop. Today, due to the rarity of wild orchids, many modern versions use alternative thickening agents.

Salep, a creamy beverage made from wild orchid tubers, has been cherished for centuries in the Middle East and Anatolia for its comforting warmth and health-promoting properties. The most notable benefit of salep tea is its soothing effect on the digestive and respiratory systems, largely attributed to the thick, mucilage-like substance derived from the orchid root powder.

According to a 2019 study published in the *Potravinarstvo Slovak Journal of Food Sciences*, mulled wine with added spices like cloves and cinnamon contains a significantly higher antioxidant profile and lower alcoholic content compared to the base wine. This raises the question of whether enjoying a warm glass of mulled wine is actually beneficial for your health.

According to numerous brands and homemade recipes, a typical starting point is 2 to 4 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix for every 8 ounces (1 cup) of hot liquid. The ideal amount of hot cocoa mix per cup can vary significantly based on the brand, its ingredients, and your personal preference for richness and sweetness.