Making: Khakshir
I am lucky to live in a building with a very strong sense of community. We have several outdoor spaces that neighbors tend to use concurrently, so more often than not an evening lounging outside can turn into an impromptu get-together. One such gathering occurred the other night when I noticed that my Persian neighbor was drinking from a glass bottle filled with what, from a distance, looked like glitter. Curious, I asked what it was, and she kindly taught me.
Khakshir is a Persian beverage made using khakshir seeds — also known as teff. My neighbor explained that it is not only very refreshing but can also help with increasing hydration, among other benefits. This shouldn’t come as a surprise; the seeds are high in amino acids and other essential nutrients, so drinking khakshir is a bit like taking a multivitamin, albeit far more tasty. Sensing my enthusiasm for the topic, my neighbor dropped some extra khakshir seeds at my door so I might give making it a try.
How to Make Khakshir
Khakshir is a simple drink comprised primarily of khakshir seeds, sugar, and water. The remainder of the recipe varies, it would seem, by household and preference. In my research, I found recipes suggesting additions such as rosewater, saffron, cardamom, and lime. For my first time, however, I chose to make it as my neighbor had, with no extra components. Following the instructions of Hami Sharafi, I washed my seeds thoroughly before dissolving my sugar in a glass and then adding the clean seeds.
The finished product was mildly sweet and, while I didn’t add any flavorings, was markedly smooth drinking experience. I loved the sensation of the tiny seeds floating over my tongue as I drank. It’s worth noting that khakshir seeds tend to gel together and sink in a manner similar chia seeds, so be sure to give the contents a good stir before sipping in order to get the full experience.
After a day of drinking khakshir, I have to say that I did in fact feel more hydrated than usual. Whether that is due to the a placebo effect, actual benefits from its ingredients, or simply that I drank more because I liked it, I agree that it is a handy beverage to know about. If you this is your first time hearing about khakshir, be sure to give it a try. It might just become your go-to hydration hack.
MFK (Marry, Fuck, Kill) Rating: A later-in-life lover who is here to stay
