Soumada

Soumada is a non-alcoholic, syrupy, almond-based beverage that is produced on the island of Crete. It is made with a mixture of fresh, locally-grown almonds, sugar, and water, which is simmered in sugar syrup to create this signature Cretan drink.

Traditionally, people used a mortar and pestle to pound the almonds, although nowadays this laborious process is usually simplified by using a food processor instead. The almond syrup is often enhanced with bitter almond essence or almond extract, cinnamon sticks, cloves, or orange peel for added flavor.

Distinguished by a cloudy white color, a unique aroma, and a sweet and slightly bitter almond flavor, the syrup is typically kept in airtight glass bottles. On Crete, this syrup is a staple beverage at weddings and engagements, while people on the islands of Nisyros and Chios often offer it to guests as a warm welcome.

Soumada can be enjoyed as a refreshing summer drink when combined with cold water or club soda and ice, or as a soothing, warm beverage in winter, either mixed with boiling water or added to a cup of herbal tea (a combination known as soumada chai).