Watermelon Rooh Afza Cooler Recipe – Easy Summer Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Watermelon Rooh Afza Cooler Recipe – Easy Summer Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick and refreshing drink to beat the Indian summer heat. This Watermelon Rooh Afza Cooler is my go-to – it’s seriously the easiest thing to make, and it tastes like a little slice of heaven. I first made this when my niece came to visit, and she absolutely loved it! It’s been a family favourite ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cooler is the perfect blend of sweet, floral, and fruity. It’s incredibly hydrating, thanks to the watermelon, and the Rooh Afza adds a unique, nostalgic flavour that just screams ‘summer’ to me. Plus, it takes just 15 minutes to whip up – perfect when you need a cool drink, fast.

Ingredients

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

• 1.5 cup Watermelon cubes (about 250g)
• 2 cups Milk (about 480ml)
• 3 tablespoon Rooh Afza or rose syrup (about 45ml)

Ingredient Notes

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

Rooh Afza (Rose Syrup) – A Traditional Flavor

Rooh Afza is a beloved rose-flavoured syrup in India, especially during the summer months. It’s known for its cooling properties and vibrant colour. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, or even online. If you can’t find Rooh Afza, you can substitute it with rose syrup, but the flavour won’t be quite the same.

Watermelon – Choosing the Sweetest Variety

The key to a great watermelon cooler is, well, a great watermelon! Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground. A good thump should sound hollow. I personally love the red-fleshed varieties for their sweetness.

Milk – Dairy or Non-Dairy Options

Feel free to use whatever milk you prefer! I usually use full-fat milk for a richer taste, but you can easily use skim milk, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Each will give a slightly different flavour profile, so experiment and see what you like best. My friend, Priya, swears by using coconut milk for an extra tropical twist!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing! It’s so simple, you won’t believe it.

1. First, chop your watermelon into bite-sized cubes. This makes it easier to drink and enjoy.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ice cubes, milk, and Rooh Afza. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined. You want that beautiful pink colour to be consistent throughout.
3. Now, pour the mixture into your serving glasses.
4. Top each glass with a generous helping of watermelon cubes.
5. Serve immediately, or pop them in the fridge for up to an hour to get extra chilled.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t skip the ice! It’s essential for a refreshing cooler.
• Adjust the amount of Rooh Afza to your liking. Some people prefer it sweeter, others less so.
• For a smoother texture, you can blend the watermelon with the milk and Rooh Afza before adding the ice.

Variations

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

Spice Level Adjustment

A tiny pinch of cardamom powder adds a lovely warmth. My grandmother always added a sprinkle!

Vegan Adaptation

Simply use your favourite plant-based milk – almond, soy, or oat milk all work beautifully.

Festival Adaptations (Summer Solstice, Holi)

During Holi, I like to add a tiny bit of kesar (saffron) for a vibrant colour and flavour. It feels extra festive! This is also a great drink to serve during the Summer Solstice celebrations.

Serving Suggestions

This cooler is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with light snacks like namak pare or fruit chaat. It’s also a great accompaniment to a spicy Indian meal – the sweetness helps to cool things down.

Storage Instructions

This cooler is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The watermelon might release some liquid, so give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Is Rooh Afza the same as Rose Syrup?

Not quite! Rooh Afza has a more complex flavour profile with hints of herbs and spices, while rose syrup is purely rose-flavoured. You can use rose syrup as a substitute, but it won’t have the same depth of flavour.

Can I use other fruits instead of watermelon?

Absolutely! Mango, strawberries, or even pineapple would be delicious.

How can I make this cooler less sweet?

Reduce the amount of Rooh Afza, or use unsweetened milk. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice to balance the sweetness.

What kind of milk works best in this recipe?

Any milk you like! Full-fat milk gives a richer flavour, but plant-based milks are a great option too.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the Rooh Afza and milk mixture ahead of time, but add the watermelon and ice just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.