Rooh Afza Recipe – Refreshing Summer Drink with Mint & Lemon Juice

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Rooh Afza Recipe – Refreshing Summer Drink with Mint & Lemon Juice

Okay, let’s be real. Summer in India (or anywhere with scorching heat!) demands a Rooh Afza. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a childhood memory, a cooling escape, and honestly, a little bit of magic in a glass. I remember my Dadi (grandmother) always having a bottle of Rooh Afza on hand, and this version, with a little extra mint and lemon, is how I like to enjoy it now. It’s seriously the most refreshing thing ever!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Rooh Afza recipe is all about simplicity and maximum flavour. It takes just 5 minutes to whip up, requires minimal effort, and delivers a burst of cooling goodness. It’s perfect for beating the heat, a quick afternoon refresher, or even a festive treat. Plus, it’s easily customizable – more on that later!

Ingredients

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

• 2-2 1/2 tbsp Rooh Afza syrup (approx. 30-37ml)
• 1 large cup (240ml) Chilled water or soda
• 3-4 Mint leaves
• 1 1/2 tbsp Lemon juice (approx. 22ml)
• Ice Cubes as required

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients, because a few little things can make a big difference:

Rooh Afza Syrup: A Legacy of Flavor

Rooh Afza is a concentrated herbal syrup, and it’s the star of the show! It has a unique, floral, and slightly spicy flavour. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, and increasingly in international sections of larger supermarkets.

Mint Leaves: Freshness and Aroma

Fresh mint is key here. Don’t even think about using dried! The aroma and cooling sensation it adds are just unbeatable. I like to use spearmint, but peppermint works in a pinch.

Lemon Juice: Brightness and Balance

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best. It cuts through the sweetness of the Rooh Afza and adds a lovely zing. You can use bottled, but the flavour won’t be quite as vibrant.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing! It’s so easy, you’ll be sipping on this in no time.

1. Grab a tall glass and toss in those beautiful mint leaves. Give them a gentle press with the back of a spoon to release their aroma.
2. Pour in the Rooh Afza syrup and the lemon juice.
3. Now, add your chilled water or soda. I usually go for soda if I want a little fizz, but water is just as good!
4. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely combined.
5. Finally, add ice cubes to your liking and serve immediately. Seriously, don’t wait – it’s best enjoyed ice cold!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years:

• Chill everything! Chilled water/soda and a chilled glass make a world of difference.
• Adjust to taste: Everyone has a different sweetness preference. Start with 2 tbsp of Rooh Afza and add more if needed.
• Don’t over-stir: Stirring too much can make the drink lose its fizz (if using soda).

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation! Here are a few ideas:

Spice Level Adjustment

My friend, Priya, loves a tiny pinch of cardamom powder in hers. It adds a lovely warmth. You could also try a dash of ginger!

Fizzy vs. Still: Soda vs. Water

As mentioned, soda adds a lovely fizz. Club soda is great if you want a cleaner taste, while Sprite or 7-Up will add extra sweetness. But honestly, sometimes simple chilled water is all you need.

Rooh Afza Lassi Adaptation

For a creamy treat, blend the Rooh Afza mixture with a cup of yogurt (dahi) and a little milk. It’s like a Rooh Afza milkshake!

Festival Adaptations (Ramadan, Eid)

During Ramadan and Eid, this drink is a staple! Some families like to add a sprinkle of rose petals for extra fragrance and a touch of elegance.

Serving Suggestions

This drink is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Spicy snacks like samosas or pakoras
• Light meals like biryani or pulao
• Just about anything, really! It’s that versatile.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this is best enjoyed immediately. But if you absolutely have leftovers, you can store it in the fridge for up to a few hours. The fizz will disappear, and the flavours might mellow slightly, but it will still be tasty.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Rooh Afza and where does it come from?

Rooh Afza is a traditional Unani herbal syrup originating from India. It was created in 1906 by Hakeem Hafiz Abdul Majeed and is known for its cooling properties and unique flavour.

Can I make Rooh Afza at home?

Yes, you can! But it’s a pretty involved process with lots of herbs and ingredients. It’s easier to just buy a bottle, if you can find it.

What can I substitute for Rooh Afza if I can’t find it?

It’s tough to replicate the exact flavour, but you could try a mix of rose syrup, khus syrup, and a tiny bit of spice (like cardamom). It won’t be the same, but it’ll be a decent substitute.

Is Rooh Afza safe for everyone to consume? (Pregnancy, Diabetes)

If you are pregnant or have diabetes, it’s best to consult with your doctor before consuming Rooh Afza, as it contains sugar.

How can I adjust the sweetness of this drink?

Start with less Rooh Afza syrup and add more to taste. You can also balance the sweetness with extra lemon juice.