Air Katira

Image: Malay Heritage Centre

Cooling off with a taste of tradition! #Foodforthought, did you know that ‘Air Katira’ is a popular refreshment in Singapore during the fasting month of Ramadan?

Made with evaporated milk, Katira gum (a natural gum extracted from the Katira tree), basil seeds, malva nuts, rose water syrup and sugar, Air Katira is described as a textured, milky and fragrant drink. Nuts like almonds and dried fruits such as dates and coloured food flavouring may be added to make it taste and look more festive.

Air Katira is usually consumed during Ramadan to hydrate and cool down the body after fasting.

Beyond its refreshing taste, the cold drink offers a glimpse into Singapore’s diverse cultural and culinary influences. The original Air Katira is whitish in colour but the drink has been adapted to suit local tastes in Singapore and Malaysia. Now grass jelly (Cincau), lychee, honeydew-flavoured Air Katira can be easily found at Ramadan bazaars. We even found a vendor selling Hazelnut Latte-flavoured Air Katira in Singapore!

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