North Africa · Drink
Lagbi (Fresh Sweet Date Palm Sap)
An unfermented, naturally sweet elixir extracted from Libyan oasis date palms, chilled and infused with crushed mint and sweet lemon.
The story
Harvested at dawn across the date palm groves of the Fezzan and Ghadames oases, Lagbi is an ancient, refreshing desert beverage celebrated during the scorching spring and summer months. Traditionally tapped by master climbers who score the crown of male date palms, the nectar drips overnight into earthenware vessels before the desert heat triggers rapid natural fermentation. In southern Libyan culture, fresh, unfermented sweet Lagbi (Lagbi Helou) is drunk immediately at sunrise to replenish electrolytes and minerals after arduous desert travel.
Unlock the full recipe
Members get every recipe from all 54 nations, the AI Chef, hands-free Voice Chef and their own cookbook. Seven days free, then £4.99 a month. Cancel any time.
Cook this next
Asida (Steamed Wheat Flour Pudding with Melted Butter and Date Syrup)
A glossy, velvety steamed flour dome cradling a pool of rich clarified butter and deep, mineral-rich Libyan date molasses.
Abamber (Chewy Almond and Orange Blossom Drops)
Crisp-shelled yet tenderly chewy Libyan almond macaroons perfumed with orange blossom water and capped with whole blanched almonds.
Bsisa (Spiced Roasted Barley and Chickpea Flour Paste with Olive Oil)
A fragrant, nutty roasted barley and spice paste bound with golden olive oil and sweet date syrup for pure desert sustenance.
Bureek bil-Bataata (Crisp Flaky Pastry Stuffed with Spiced Potatoes and Minced Meat)
Flaky, blistered pastry parcels loaded with creamy spiced mashed potatoes, savory minced beef, and fragrant parsley, fried crisp.