Talbinah – A Sunnah Of Holy Prophet (PBUH)

What is it?

In case you are not familiar with the term “Talbinah” and are wondering what it is, allow us to clarify. This is a highly beneficial form of barley porridge. Its main ingredients consist of barley flour accompanied by wholesome milk and honey.

Origin of the Word “Talbinah”

According to Wikipedia, the term “Talbinah” is derived from the Arabic word “Laban” which means yogurt. It bears a resemblance to yogurt in terms of its colour and consistency.

Nutritional Benefits

Talbinah is conducive for children’s growth. Moreover, it also contributes positively to heart health. Barley is a brilliant source of anti oxidants, vitamins and minerals. It offers protection against various types of cancer. Not only that, it is a food that is dense in fibre which keeps things sailing smoothly on the bowel front.

 The Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) consumed Talbinah occasionally. This simple barley soup can be taken as a fibre rich alternative to unhealthy fried and refined foods.

Hadith Regarding Talbinah

The Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) said, “I encourage you to use that which is disliked but beneficial (Talbina) for by the One whose hand Muhammad’s soul is in, it cleans the stomach of one of you just as dirt is cleaned from the face with water.”[Mustadrak of Haakim (7455), Saheeh as Dhahabi mentioned in ‘Talkhees’ taken from Maktaba Shaamilah, See also Mustadrak (8245) whose chain is upon the condition of Bukhaaree as Dhahabi mentioned].

It was narrated from ‘Aa’ishah, the wife of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), that if a member of her family died, the women would gather together, then they would depart,  with the exception of her own relatives and close friends. She would order that a pot of talbeenah be cooked, then some thareed would be made and the talbeenah would be poured over it. Then she would say: Eat some of it, for I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “Talbeenah soothes the heart of the sick person, and it takes away some of the grief.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5101; Muslim, 2216.

Talbinah Recipe

Here is a simple but delicious way to prepare your own version of Talbinah.

Ingredients

• Barley 1 cup
• Milk ½ litre
• Honey 2 tbsp
• You can also add additional options such as dates, dried figs or apricots, almonds as well as pistachios. Chia seeds can also pack a nutritional punch if added to this delectable treat.

Method

1. Heat milk to boiling point.
2. Add barley.
3. When the mixture acquires a thick consistency add figs, apricots and dates ( just to garnish and in moderation, please).
4. Cook the porridge till it reaches your preferred consistency level.
5. Turn the flame off.
6. Sprinkle some cardamom powder and add honey before serving.

References:

https://roadislam.com/talbinah-barley-porridge-made-milk-honey/

Rashid, U. What did the Prophet (S. a. w) Eat for Iftar? 17 Jul 2014.