Lassi is one of the most popular beverages in India to beat the soaring temperatures! While the classic lassi is amazing just by itself, you can definitely perk it up by adding different flavors to make a variety of flavored lassis. This rose lassi is a delectable twist to the traditional lassi. It is flavored with rose syrup, which not only adds a delicious rose flavor but also adds a gorgeous pink hue to this lassi.
Why you will love this recipe?
This rose flavored lassi; ☑ Is made primarily with curd/yogurt which is good for digestion. ☑ Is packed with fragrant and sweet floral notes. ☑ Can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or topped with ice cream as a dessert ☑ Is ready within minutes ☑ Is perfect to cool you down during the scorching summer heat ☑ Recipe can be scaled as per your needs
Ingredients needed
Dahi (curd) or yogurt
The authentic Indian lassi recipe uses dahi or curd as the base. There is a slight difference between dahi and yogurt. Dahi is made by curdling milk with an acidic substance such as lemon juice, vinegar, or curd. Yogurt on the other hand is made by fermentation of milk by using bacterial strains. Two specific strains of bacteria i.e lactobacillus bulgaricus and streptococcus thermophilus are used to ferment the milk to make yogurt. You can also use yogurt or Greek yogurt to make it a rose-flavored yogurt drink! It is just as good! If using Greek yogurt, adjust the consistency of the lassi by adding more liquid in the form of water or milk.
Rose syrup
Rose syrup is available in most grocery stores and even online. You can also use roohafza syrup. If you can’t find rose syrup, add some rose water. For an additional flavor boost, you can also add a tablespoon of gulkand which is nothing but a rose petal jam.
Sugar
It is best to use powdered sugar as it dissolves easily. You can also use superfine or castor sugar. Rose syrup is quite sweet, so you may skip adding sugar too. You may also sweeten with other sugar substitutes such as honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, coconut sugar, stevia, monk fruit, etc as per your preference.
Water
Water is added to thin down the lassi and adjust the consistency. You can use milk instead of water for a richer and creamier lassi. Some folks avoid mixing curd and milk together. So feel free to use whatever you prefer.
Other ingredients
Besides the above ingredients, you will also need some ground cardamom to flavor the lassi. I’ve used dried rose petals and slivered pistachios for garnishing which are totally optional but I think it makes the lassi look fancy. Besides, pistachios, cardamom, and rose, all pair extremely well together.
How to make rose lassi – Step by step process
In a large bowl or clay pot, add 2 cups curd/yogurt, and whisk until smooth and creamy. You can also use a Madani which is a traditional tool used to churn the curd. (Photos 1 to 3)
Next, add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, 4 tablespoons of rose syrup, and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water, and whisk until well combined and frothy. (Photos 4 to 7)
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder, if using, give it a good whisk. (Photos 8 and 9) Alternatively, you can simply use a blender to blend everything. Blending curd in the blender makes it a bit watery, so you may need just a couple of tablespoons of liquid to adjust the consistency.
Drizzle rose syrup on the sides of the serving glass to create a random pattern and pour the lassi. You may add a few ice cubes if you like. Garnish with slivered pistachios and dried rose petals, and enjoy immediately! (Photos 10 to 12)
Serving suggestions
Lassi tastes best when served chilled! This lassi is quite thick and filling. You can enjoy a tall glass of refreshing rose lassi on its own. For an authentic touch, try serving it in copper or terracotta glasses. You could also serve it along with a meal. If serving with a meal, try serving it in small 1/2 cup glasses. For an indulgent dessert, top it with some rose-flavored or plain vanilla ice cream or just some sweetened whipped cream!
Storage suggestions
It is best to enjoy this lassi as soon as it is prepared. If you intend to make it ahead, you can refrigerate it for a couple of hours in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Avoid adding ice cubes if you refrigerate the lassi since it will water down the drink. You can also freeze it in popsicle molds to make rose lassi popsicles! They sure make for a yummy frozen treat!
Recipe Tips
Full-fat curd: Use full-fat curd or yogurt for best results. Taste the curd before making the lassi. It should not taste sour or the lassi will taste a tad too tangy. Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness as per your desired taste. Remember the rose syrup is already quite sweet. Rose flavor: If you are unsure of the rose flavor, add a tablespoon of rose syrup at a time, mix and taste. Keep adding until you reach the desired rose flavor.
What does rose lassi taste like?
This lassi tastes sweet with floral notes of rose and a sweet earthy aroma of green cardamom. It is slightly thick and creamy in consistency.
Is it healthy?
Since lassi contains sugar, it is not really healthy. But can be beneficial if consumed in moderation since it is a rich source of calcium and is packed with healthy bacteria.
Can I make a vegan version of this lassi?
Yes, of course, you can! Swap the curd or yogurt with your favorite plant-based yogurt.
You may also enjoy these lassi recipes
Mango lassi Strawberry lassi ★ If you try this Punjabi sweet rose lassi recipe, I would love to hear from you! I’d appreciate it if you could rate and leave a review below in the comments. Your reviews help others know the recipe better too. Thanks so much 🙂 You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram & Twitter