Food and drink might not be the first things you think of with Sudan, particularly with the country in a state of war. Despite this the nation still boasts great tourist sites, as well as Sudanese food and Sudanese drinks being extremely good.
And while Sudanese drinks might come as a bit of a surprise from me, particular with it being dry, the drinks here are unique, flavorsome and there is even a hint of moonshine….
You can read about food in Bir Tawil here.
1. Karkadeh
First on the list is Karkadeh, Sudan’s national drink made from the hibiscus flower. Deep red and refreshingly tart, this cold drink is perfect for hot Sudanese days. It’s rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, making it both delicious and healthy. You’ll find karkadeh served at special occasions or simply as a daily refresher.
Photo: Lo Kaen
2. Hilumur
A beloved Ramadan staple, Hilumur is a fermented beverage made from sorghum flour and spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. It has a slightly tangy flavor and is usually served cold. Hilumur is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural symbol of hospitality and tradition during the holy month.
3. Sharbout
Similar to Hilumur but more festive, Sharbout is another Ramadan drink that’s often made with dates or raisins, giving it a natural sweetness. This drink is fermented slightly, so it has a mild alcohol content, making it popular at celebrations and feasts. It’s served cold and pairs well with rich Sudanese meals.
4. Abreh
If you’re after a cooling drink with a bit of a twist, Abreh is your answer. Made from ground sorghum and spices, it’s both sweet and slightly sour. Abreh is particularly common in rural areas and is often given to guests as a sign of welcome. It’s a drink that embodies the rustic charm of Sudanese hospitality.
5. Tabaldi
Also known as the Baobab drink, Tabaldi is made from the fruit of the iconic Baobab tree, commonly called the “Tree of Life.” This drink is packed with nutrients, especially Vitamin C and calcium. It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and extremely refreshing. Tabaldi is great for keeping you cool and hydrated in the searing heat.
6. Gurasa Tea
Sudan is a tea-loving country, and Gurasa Tea is an absolute must-try. This spiced tea, brewed with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, is not only warming but incredibly flavorful. It’s usually served with gurasa, a type of Sudanese flatbread, making it a popular snack-time combo. Whether you’re enjoying it in a busy market or a quiet family home, this tea embodies the warm spirit of Sudanese hospitality.
Photo: Mejor con Salud
7. Aradaib
Made from tamarind, Aradaib is a popular drink that’s both tangy and sweet. It’s often enjoyed during Ramadan or served at weddings and special occasions. The tamarind pulp is soaked in water, strained, and then sweetened to create a deliciously refreshing drink that balances the tartness with a touch of sugar.
8. Sobia
Sobia is a creamy, milk-based drink flavored with rice, coconut, and sometimes spices. It’s especially popular during Ramadan, where it’s served chilled as a refreshing treat to break the fast. Sobia has a rich, comforting flavor, and its thick, almost smoothie-like consistency makes it stand out from other traditional drinks in Sudan.
9. Nabeez
Nabeez is a traditional drink made from dates or raisins soaked in water overnight until they ferment slightly. The result is a lightly sweet, refreshing drink with a mild kick of natural fermentation. Nabeez has Islamic roots, and its simplicity makes it a common sight during Ramadan and other Islamic festivals in Sudan.
10. Sudanese Coffee
Sudanese coffee, locally known as Jabana, is no ordinary cup of joe. Brewed with cardamom, ginger, and cloves, it’s packed with flavor and warmth. Coffee culture in Sudan is a social affair, often served during family gatherings or special occasions. The aroma of Sudanese coffee brewing in a traditional Jabana pot is as inviting as the drink itself. Expect a full-bodied, spiced experience that rivals any coffee you’ve had before.
Photo: Kulong B Chan
11. Vimto
This classic British blackcurrant soda, cordial and still drink is not just huge in Sudan, but across the Islamic world. How this happened you can read about here, but make no mistake no quest for Sudanese drinks would be complete without it.
12. Hibiscus
Another great for Sudanese drinks is anything made from hibiscus, from tea to fresh juices. This is a huge deal for the Nubian people and can also be tried in Egypt when you take a cruise for example.
13. Sudanese water?
OK, so I might be showing off here a bit, but I mangled to take the water like a champ here right from the tap and the trough, despite the warnings from Abdul, our local guide. Quite the savior when you are lost in Bir Tawil.
14. Sudanese tea
This might seem obvious when you talk about Sudanese drinks, but this is THE Sudanese drink. Served everywhere black and with the choice of sugar, not only is it popular, but it marks one of the main areas of employment for women.
15. Sudanese moonshine!
Shares much un common with the moonshine of Papua New Guinea, including questionable legality. Overall I found the stuff smooth, string without being overbearing and a clear favorite among Sudanese drinks for me.
Photo: Homebrew Academy
Conclusion
Sudanese drinks are just one part of what makes Sudan so great, with their tourist attractions and friendly people being the real draws. Yet sadly whilst you will most likely know lots of wars in Ukraine, Palestine and Lebanon you will hear little about the conflict in Sudan.
And sadly until people do start giving a shit peace and any form of normality are yet to return any time soon.
You can check my theoretical Sudanese tours here.