Gulkand Milk Recipe – Easy Rose Flavored Indian Milk Drink

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Gulkand Milk Recipe – Easy Rose Flavored Indian Milk Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a comforting, subtly sweet drink. And let me tell you, this Gulkand Milk is it. It’s a hug in a mug, seriously! I first made this when I was craving something a little different from the usual masala chai, and it’s been a family favorite ever since. It’s so simple, yet so incredibly flavorful. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Gulkand Milk is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s quick to make – seriously, just 5 minutes! – and requires minimal ingredients. The floral notes of rose from the gulkand combined with the creamy milk are just divine. Plus, gulkand has some amazing health benefits (more on that later!). It’s the perfect cozy drink for a chilly evening or a refreshing treat on a warm day.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful drink:

• 1 cup milk (about 240ml)
• 1 tablespoon gulkand (about 15g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Getting the right ones makes all the difference.

Gulkand: Exploring Varieties and Benefits

Gulkand is a sweet preserve made of rose petals and sugar. You can find different varieties – some are more intensely flavored than others. I prefer the ones made with pure rose petals and minimal additives. Gulkand is known for its cooling properties and is often used in Ayurveda for its health benefits, like aiding digestion and reducing stress. You can usually find it at Indian grocery stores or online.

Milk: Choosing the Right Type for Richness

For the richest, creamiest Gulkand Milk, I recommend using full-fat milk. However, you can absolutely use any type of milk you prefer – almond milk, soy milk, or even oat milk work beautifully for a vegan version (more on that later!). Using about 240ml of milk will give you two generous glasses.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some magic!

1. Pour the milk into a saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Keep a close eye on it – we don’t want it to overflow!
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the milk simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This helps to develop a richer flavor.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat. This is important! We don’t want to cook the gulkand.
4. Add the gulkand to the hot milk. Now, the fun part!
5. Stir, stir, stir! Keep stirring until the gulkand is completely dissolved. You want that beautiful rose flavor infused throughout the milk.
6. Pour into your favorite serving mugs and enjoy immediately while it’s warm.

Expert Tips

A few little things that can take this recipe to the next level:

• Don’t overboil the milk: Simmering is key for a creamy texture.
• Stir well: Ensure the gulkand dissolves completely for a smooth, even flavor.
• Serve warm: Gulkand Milk tastes best when enjoyed immediately.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Gulkand Milk Adaptation

My friend Priya is vegan, and she loves this recipe with almond milk! Simply substitute the dairy milk with 1 cup (240ml) of unsweetened almond milk. It’s just as delicious!

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a teaspoon of sugar or honey along with the gulkand. I usually find the gulkand provides enough sweetness for me.

Spice Level: Adding a Hint of Cardamom or Saffron

For a more aromatic experience, add a pinch of cardamom powder or a few strands of saffron to the milk while simmering. My grandmother always added a tiny pinch of cardamom – it’s heavenly!

Festival Adaptations: A Refreshing Drink for Holi or Summer Celebrations

This drink is perfect for Holi! The cooling properties of gulkand are so refreshing after all the fun and festivities. It’s also a wonderful drink to enjoy during hot summer months.

Serving Suggestions

Gulkand Milk is wonderful on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your experience:

• Garnish: Sprinkle a few rose petals on top for a beautiful presentation.
• Pairing: Enjoy with a light snack like biscuits or a piece of fruit.
• Dessert Drink: Serve after a meal as a light and refreshing dessert drink.

Storage Instructions

This is best enjoyed fresh! However, if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavor might slightly diminish, but it will still be tasty. Just gently reheat before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Gulkand and where can I find it?

Gulkand is a sweet preserve made from rose petals and sugar, traditionally used in Indian cuisine and Ayurveda. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online retailers.

Can I use flavored milk instead of plain milk?

While you can use flavored milk, I wouldn’t recommend it. The artificial flavors might clash with the delicate rose flavor of the gulkand. Plain milk allows the gulkand to really shine.

How can I make Gulkand milk ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can heat the milk and dissolve the gulkand ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and gently reheat when ready to serve.

Is Gulkand milk suitable for children?

Yes, it is! Gulkand is generally safe for children, but it’s always a good idea to check with your pediatrician if you have any concerns.

What are the health benefits of drinking Gulkand milk?

Gulkand is known for its cooling properties and is believed to aid digestion, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. It’s a delicious way to add a little wellness to your day!