Rose Milk Recipe – Elachi & Sabja Seeds Indian Summer Drink

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Rose Milk Recipe – Elachi & Sabja Seeds Indian Summer Drink

Introduction

Oh, Rose Milk! This drink instantly transports me back to summer afternoons at my grandmother’s house. It’s the kind of drink that just feels cooling, even before the first sip. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a little piece of nostalgia, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for beating the heat, and a delightful treat for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be real, sometimes you just need something refreshing and comforting. This Rose Milk ticks all the boxes! It’s quick to whip up – seriously, only 10 minutes of prep time – and requires minimal effort. Plus, the subtle floral aroma of rose combined with the warmth of cardamom (elachi) is simply divine. It’s a beautiful, naturally pink drink that’s as pretty to look at as it is delicious to drink.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magic:

• 1 litre full cream milk
• 8 scoops vanilla ice-cream (about 500ml)
• ¼ cup elachie syrup
• 3 tbsp rose water
• 2-3 tbsp sabja seeds

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Sabja Seeds: Benefits and Soaking

Sabja seeds (also known as basil seeds) are tiny but mighty! They’re packed with nutrients and add a lovely texture to the drink. Don’t skip the soaking step! Soaking them in 1 cup of water for about 10 minutes allows them to expand and become delightfully jelly-like.

Elachie Syrup: Regional Variations & Homemade Options

Elachie syrup, infused with the fragrant cardamom, is key to that authentic flavour. You can find it in most Indian grocery stores. Different regions have slightly different variations – some are more concentrated than others. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can easily make your own by simmering cardamom pods in sugar syrup!

Full Cream Milk: Alternatives for Different Dietary Needs

I prefer full cream milk for the richest, creamiest Rose Milk. But, you can absolutely use other types of milk! Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk all work well for a vegan option (more on that later!). Just keep in mind that the flavour and texture will be slightly different.

Rose Water: Quality and Flavor Profiles

Rose water can vary a lot in quality. Look for a brand that smells genuinely floral and not artificial. A little goes a long way, so start with 3 tablespoons and adjust to your liking.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part!

1. First, soak your sabja seeds in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes. Once they’ve plumped up, drain them and set aside.
2. In a large jug, pour in the milk and add the vanilla ice-cream. Give it a good stir until everything is smooth and creamy.
3. Now, add the elachie syrup and rose water. Mix well to make sure all those lovely flavours are combined.
4. Gently fold in the soaked sabja seeds. This is where the magic happens – that little pop of texture is so satisfying!
5. Finally, serve chilled! I love adding an extra scoop of ice-cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra treat.

Expert Tips

• For an extra chilled drink, pop the jug into the freezer for 15-20 minutes before serving.
• Don’t over-stir after adding the sabja seeds, or they might break down.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the rose water and elachie syrup to suit your preference.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan Rose Milk

Swap the full cream milk for your favourite plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work beautifully) and use a vegan vanilla ice-cream. It’s just as delicious! My friend, Priya, swears by using coconut milk for an extra tropical twist.

Gluten-Free Rose Milk

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check the label on your vanilla ice-cream to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients.

Spice Level Adjustment (Rose Water Concentration)

If you adore a strong rose flavour, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of rose water. But be careful – it can quickly become overpowering! Start small and taste as you go.

Festival Adaptations (Summer Solstice/Heatwave Refreshment)

This drink is perfect for celebrating the summer solstice or simply surviving a heatwave! It’s incredibly cooling and refreshing. I often make a big batch for family gatherings during the hottest months.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in tall glasses with a sprig of mint for a pretty presentation.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or almonds.
• Pair it with some light snacks like biscuits or fruit.

Storage Instructions

Rose Milk is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The sabja seeds might continue to expand, so the texture will change slightly. Give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

What is Sabja Seeds and are they essential for this recipe?

Sabja seeds are tiny black seeds that expand when soaked in water. They add a unique texture and are a good source of nutrients. While they aren’t essential, they definitely elevate the drink!

Can I make Elachie Syrup at home?

Absolutely! Simmer 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water and 8-10 crushed cardamom pods until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly. Let it cool completely before using.

What type of milk works best for Rose Milk?

Full cream milk gives the richest flavour and creamiest texture. However, any type of milk will work – just adjust the flavourings accordingly.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the Rose Milk?

The sweetness comes from the ice-cream and elachie syrup. You can reduce the amount of either to adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Can this be made ahead of time? How long will it stay fresh?

You can prepare the sabja seeds and elachie syrup ahead of time. The Rose Milk itself is best enjoyed fresh, but will stay good in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Is Rose Water safe for everyone to consume? Are there any precautions?

Rose water is generally safe for consumption, but some people may be allergic. If you’ve never had it before, start with a small amount to see how you react. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with their doctor before consuming large amounts of rose water.