Egyptian Sobia (Coconut and Rice Drink) Recipe : Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, family, and of course, the special foods and drinks that make the month feel magical. While dates and water are the traditional way to break the fast, across Egypt, tables light up with a special white treat known as Sobia.
If you have never tried it, imagine the coziest rice pudding you know, but thinned down into a chilled, sippable drink. It’s creamy, sweet, and kissed with the tropical flavor of coconut. Making this Egyptian Sobia Recipe at home isn’t just about following steps; it’s about filling your kitchen with the scent of tradition. As we look forward to Ramadan 2026, let’s bring this Egyptian treasure to your Iftar table.
Here is everything you need to know to make the perfect batch.
Required Ingredients to make Egyptian Sobia (Coconut and Rice Drink) Recipe
The beauty of this Coconut & Rice Drink recipe lies in its simplicity. You likely have most of these in your pantry.
- 1/2 cup Short-grain white rice (Egyptian rice or Arborio works best)
- 1 cup Desiccated or shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened Condensed Milk (adjust for your sweetness preference)
- 1 liter Whole milk (or a mix of milk and water for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon Rose water or Vanilla extract (optional, but adds an authentic Egyptian touch)
- Ice cubes (for serving)
- Ground cinnamon or nuts (for garnish, optional)
Step Wise Directions
Step 1: The Overnight Soak
The night before you plan to cook, wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Place the rinsed rice in a bowl with the desiccated coconut. Cover with water (about 2 inches above the mixture) and let it sit overnight. This softens the rice, making it easier to blend into a smooth drink.
Step 2: The Power Blend
The next day, drain the rice and coconut mixture. Transfer it to a high-speed blender. Add half of the milk (about 500ml). Blend on high for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth. There should be no graininess left.
Step 3: Straining for Smoothness
Place a fine-mesh strainer or a cheesecloth over a large bowl. Pour the blended mixture through. Use a spoon to press down and extract all the “milk” from the pulp. Discard the dry pulp left behind. This step is the secret to a silky Sobia.
Step 4: Simmering the Drink
Pour the strained liquid into a large pot. Add the remaining milk and the sweetened condensed milk. Whisk continuously over medium heat. Do not let it come to a rolling boil; we just want to heat it through until it thickens slightly (about 10-15 minutes). If using rose water or vanilla, add it in the last minute.
Step 5: The Chill
Remove from heat. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to a large pitcher or glass bottle. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Sobia is meant to be served ice cold!
Step 6: Serve with Love
Give the chilled Sobia a good stir (it might separate slightly). Pour into glasses over ice cubes. Dust with a pinch of cinnamon or top with chopped nuts for a beautiful presentation.
Table of Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
*Based on a standard serving size of 250ml (approx 1 cup), using whole milk and full-fat condensed milk.*
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving | |
|---|---|---|
| Servings Per Recipe | 8 | |
| Calories | 290 kcal | |
| **% Daily Value *** | ||
| Total Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 20mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 95mg | 4% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 42g | 15% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars | 35g | |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 220mg | 17% |
| Iron | 0.5mg | 3% |
| Potassium | 350mg | 8% |
Final Thought
Making this Egyptian Sobia Recipe for Ramadan 2026 is more than just preparing a drink. It’s about slowing down in the hustle of the day to create something that nourishes your family. Watching everyone’s face light up as they take that first cold, creamy sip after a long day of fasting is a feeling that never gets old. It connects us to the rich culinary history of Egypt while creating new memories at home. May your Ramadan be filled with peace and delicious moments.
Also Read: Authentic Qamar al-Din Recipe: The Classic Apricot Juice for Ramadan
FAQ’S (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make this Coconut ; Rice Drink recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make a vegan Sobia, swap the whole milk for full-fat coconut milk or oat milk. Replace the sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk (available in specialty stores) or use a mix of sugar and coconut cream to taste.
My Sobia is too thick. How do I fix it?
Sobia naturally thickens as it cools. Simply stir in a little cold water or milk when you are serving it until it reaches your desired sipping consistency.
How long does homemade Sobia last?
Store it in a sealed container or pitcher in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just remember to stir it well before serving as the sediments will settle.
Egyptian Sobia or Coconut & Rice Drink Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Wash 1/2 cup rice until water runs clear. Place in a bowl with 1 cup desiccated coconut. Cover with water (2 inches above mixture) and let soak overnight.1/2 cup Short-grain white rice, 1 cup Desiccated or shredded coconut
- Drain the soaked rice and coconut. Transfer to a blender. Add 500ml milk. Blend on high for 3-5 minutes until completely smooth and no graininess remains.1 liter Whole milk
- Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a bowl. Pour the blended mixture through. Press with a spoon to extract all liquid. Discard the dry pulp left behind.
- Pour strained liquid into a pot. Add remaining milk and 1 can sweetened condensed milk. Whisk continuously over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened. Do not boil. Add rose water or vanilla in the last minute if using.1 tablespoon Rose water or Vanilla extract, 1 can
- Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Transfer to a pitcher or bottle. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until ice cold.
- Stir well (it may separate slightly). Pour into glasses over ice. Dust with cinnamon or top with chopped nuts. Enjoy!Ice cubes, Ground cinnamon or nuts
Notes
- Sweetness Level: The 1 can of condensed milk provides a classic, dessert-level sweetness. If you prefer a lighter drink to accompany a heavy meal, start with 3/4 of a can, taste the mixture before chilling, and add more if needed.
- Rice Matters: Using short-grain rice is key. Long-grain rice doesn’t break down as well and won’t give you that creamy starchiness that makes Sobia so satisfying.
- The Secret Spice: While optional, a pinch of ground cardamom added during the simmering stage can elevate this drink with a lovely, warm aroma that pairs beautifully with the coconut.
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