Amar Al-Din

Ingredients

 * 1 5-inch-square sheet of apricot paste (see note)
 * 1 quart cold water
 * Sugar or sugar syrup, to taste
 * mint sprigs, for garnish

Directions
NOTE: apricot paste can be found at Middle Eastern stores.

1. Tear the apricot sheet into small pieces and place them in a medium-sized nonreactive bowl.

2. Add the cold water and soak until the apricot dissolves. Strain through a fine sieve and sweeten to taste. Serve cold, garnished with springs of mint.

Makes about 1 quart.