With the onset of summer, people love preparing refreshing drinks at home—be it lemonade, mango coolers, or traditional Indian sherbets. One of the most loved summer beverages is Rooh Afza. Known for its sweet floral fragrance and cooling properties, Rooh Afza syrup is used to make various drinks that are especially loved by children.

While market options are easily available, homemade Rooh Afza is a healthier and cleaner alternative, allowing you to control both the ingredients and hygiene. And the best part? It's easy to make and can be stored for months!

🌸 Ingredients for Homemade Rooh Afza Syrup

To prepare Rooh Afza at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups sugar
• 2.5 cups water
• 2 cups fresh rose petals (preferably red)
• ½ teaspoon edible red food color
• ½ lemon (juice)
• A few drops of rose essence or kewra essence (optional)

🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Recipe for Rooh Afza

1. Prepare Rose Extract:

Take a heavy-bottomed pan and add 3 cups of sugar, 2 cups of water, and the washed rose petals. Cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 5–10 minutes until the rose petals lose their color and the essence is released into the water.

2. Strain the Mixture:
Once the petals have released their fragrance and color, strain the liquid using a fine sieve to remove all the petals. This will leave you with a naturally fragrant rose extract.

3. Add Remaining Ingredients:
Now, to the rose extract, add the remaining 1 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Mix well. Then dissolve ½ teaspoon of edible red color in a tablespoon of water and add it to the mixture. Add rose essence or a few drops of kewra essence for extra aroma.

4. Cook Until Syrupy:
Return the pan to medium heat and cook the mixture until it reaches a sticky, syrup-like consistency—this usually takes a few minutes. You’ll know it's ready when it forms a single-thread consistency when tested between your fingers (be careful—it’s hot!).

5. Cool and Store:
Allow the syrup to cool completely. Once cooled, pour it into a clean, airtight glass bottle or jar. Store it in a cool, dry place or refrigerate it.

🧊 Storage Tip:

Homemade Rooh Afza can be stored for up to 5 to 6 months if kept in an airtight container and away from direct sunlight.

💡 How to Use Rooh Afza:

• Mix 2–3 tablespoons of the syrup with cold water and ice for an instant cooler.
• Add to milk for a sweet rose-flavored drink.
• Drizzle over desserts like falooda, kulfi, or ice cream.

Now you can enjoy the refreshing taste of homemade Rooh Afza all summer long—free from preservatives and full of natural goodness!