Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Rooh Afza Watermelon Drink Recipe – Easy Summer Cooler with Sabja Seeds

Introduction

Okay, let’s be real – summer in India (and anywhere it gets hot!) calls for serious refreshment. And honestly, nothing hits the spot quite like a tall glass of Rooh Afza. I have so many childhood memories of my Dadi (grandmother) making this for us on scorching afternoons. This Rooh Afza Watermelon Drink takes that classic flavor and makes it even more amazing with sweet watermelon and those delightfully crunchy sabja seeds. It’s super easy to make, and honestly, it’s become my go-to cooler for beating the heat. You’ll absolutely love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just a drink; it’s a little slice of summer happiness. It’s quick to whip up – perfect when guests pop over or you just need something instantly cooling. Plus, it’s naturally sweet and flavorful, and those sabja seeds add a fun texture. It’s a nostalgic flavor for many, and a delicious introduction to Indian summer drinks for those trying it for the first time!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 4 cup milk (approximately 950ml)
• As needed ice cubes
• 2 tbsp Rooh Afza (approximately 30ml)
• ?? Sugar (start with 2 tbsp, approximately 25g, and adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp sabja seeds (approximately 20g)
• 2 cup watermelon, chopped (approximately 300g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients – a few little tips to make sure everything’s just right:

Rooh Afza: A Classic Rose-Flavored Syrup

Rooh Afza is a concentrated rose-flavored syrup that’s a staple in many Indian households, especially during summer. It’s known for its cooling properties and delicious floral taste. You can usually find it at Indian grocery stores or online.

Sabja Seeds: Benefits and Soaking Tips

These tiny black seeds are packed with goodness! They’re a great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Important: You absolutely must soak them before using. They expand a lot and become wonderfully gelatinous, adding a lovely texture to the drink. I usually soak them for at least 30 minutes, but longer is fine.

Watermelon: Choosing the Sweetest Variety

The sweeter the watermelon, the better the drink! Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground. A gentle thump should sound hollow.

Milk: Full Fat vs. Low Fat Options

I usually use full-fat milk for a richer, creamier drink, but you can definitely use low-fat or even plant-based milk if you prefer. It will slightly alter the texture, but still be delicious!

Sugar: Adjusting Sweetness to Your Preference

The amount of sugar really depends on how sweet your watermelon is and your personal preference. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more, a teaspoon at a time, until it’s just right for you.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing!

1. First, in a large bowl, pour in the chilled milk and add a generous handful of ice cubes. This is key for that super-refreshing chill.
2. Now, add the Rooh Afza and sugar to the milk. Give it a good stir until everything is completely dissolved. No one wants grainy sugar at the bottom of their glass!
3. Next, toss in the finely chopped watermelon pieces and the soaked sabja seeds. Gently mix everything together.
4. Give it a taste! This is where you can adjust the sweetness or rose flavor. Add a little more Rooh Afza if you want a stronger floral note, or a touch more sugar if you like it sweeter.
5. Finally, pour into glasses and garnish with a few extra watermelon cubes or a sprig of fresh mint. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this drink perfect:

Achieving the Perfect Chill

Using chilled milk and plenty of ice is crucial. You can even chill your glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before serving for an extra-cold treat.

Preventing Sabja Seeds from Becoming Gummy

Don’t over-soak the sabja seeds! They should be plump and gelatinous, but not mushy. 30 minutes to an hour is usually perfect.

Blending vs. Stirring: Which is Best?

I prefer stirring to keep the watermelon chunks intact. But if you like a smoother drink, you can gently blend everything together for a few seconds. Be careful not to over-blend, or it will become frothy.

Adjusting Rooh Afza for Flavor Intensity

Rooh Afza has a pretty distinct flavor. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more gradually, tasting as you go, until you reach your desired level of rose flavor.

Variations

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

Vegan Adaptation

Simply substitute the dairy milk with your favorite plant-based milk – almond, soy, or oat milk all work beautifully.

Sugar-Free Option

Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to make a sugar-free version.

Spice Level: Adding a Hint of Cardamom or Ginger

My friend, Priya, loves adding a tiny pinch of cardamom powder or a sliver of grated ginger for a warming spice note. It’s surprisingly delicious!

Festival Adaptation: Serving During Eid or Summer Celebrations

This drink is perfect for Eid or any summer celebration! You can serve it in fancy glasses with a more elaborate garnish, like a rose petal or a sprinkle of chopped pistachios.

Serving Suggestions

This drink is best enjoyed ice-cold, on a hot day. It pairs perfectly with light snacks like biscuits, fruit chaat, or samosas. It’s also a great accompaniment to a spicy meal, as the sweetness helps to cool the palate.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this drink is best enjoyed immediately. The sabja seeds tend to lose their texture over time. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours, but the texture won’t be quite as good.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is Rooh Afza and where can I find it?

Rooh Afza is a traditional rose-flavored syrup popular in India and South Asia. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online retailers like Amazon.

Can I use other fruits instead of watermelon?

Absolutely! Mango, muskmelon, or even orange segments would be delicious in this drink.

How long can I soak the sabja seeds for?

You can soak sabja seeds for up to 2 hours. Beyond that, they might become too gummy.

Can this drink be made ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the drink just before serving, as the sabja seeds lose their texture over time. You can, however, soak the sabja seeds and chop the watermelon ahead of time.

Is it possible to make a concentrated Rooh Afza syrup for quicker preparation?

While you can’t make Rooh Afza from scratch easily, you can pre-mix Rooh Afza and sugar in a small jar to have a concentrated syrup ready to go. Just add a spoonful to your milk for a quick and easy drink!