zabad

Zabad is a term that can refer to several different things, most notably a type of civet and a sweet dish.

In zoology, zabad is another name for the Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus), a small mammal native to South and Southeast Asia. These arboreal omnivores are known for their nocturnal habits and their distinctive scent glands, from which civetone, a valuable perfume ingredient, can be extracted. They are also known for their role in the production of kopi luwak, a type of coffee produced from coffee beans that have been eaten and excreted by the civet.

As a culinary term, zabad is a sweet dessert, often a pudding or custard, popular in some Middle Eastern cuisines. Recipes for zabad vary, but commonly include ingredients such as milk, sugar, rice flour, and flavorings like rosewater or orange blossom water. It is typically served chilled and can be garnished with nuts or fruit. The etymology of the culinary term is thought to be related to the Arabic word "zabda," meaning butter, possibly due to its creamy texture.