Monsoon season brings a refreshing change in the weather, and this time is perfect for indulging in delectable dishes. One of the ways to enhance your taste buds this season is by incorporating rose petals into the preparation of dishes.
Roses are a popular garden variety flower and are considered the flower of fragrance, love, and beauty that never fails to impress. But culinary traditions consider rose, with its incredible flavours and aromas, as an ingredient that can enhance the dish and add a touch of opulence, making it indulgent.
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Rose petals, known for their delicate fragrance and flavour, offer several verified health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, they might help combat oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Rose petals have anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe skin irritation and reduce redness when used topically or consumed.
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The natural compounds in rose petals might also contribute to mood enhancement, potentially reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. So here below for you is the list of seven decadent dishes in which you can infuse rose petals and make your dining experience memorable in this monsoon season.
Gulab Phirni
Gulab phirni is a classic and lavish dish that is perfect for the monsoon season. This is a creamy rice pudding that is flavoured with rose petals, making it both visually appealing and aromatic. Gulab phirni is made from soaked rice, milk, sugar, and cardamom, all slow-cooked until the dish reaches its perfection. Garnishing it with crushed almonds or pistachios and a few rose petals gives a royal look to the dish.
Rose Petal Jam
Rose petal jam is much more delectable than normal fruit jam as it preserves the freshness of rose petals. It has a delicate floral flavour with a beautiful pink colour. Its versatility allows it to go perfectly when spread on toast, scones, or biscuits and can be a wonderful option for stuffings for pastries and cakes. It is a delightful way to enjoy the essence of roses in this monsoon.
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Rose Petal Lassi
Rose Petal Lassi is a cooling and refreshing beverage. This variation of lassi made with fresh curd, rose syrup, rose petals, sugar, and dry fruits is perfect for the humid monsoon weather. This beverage can get an extra burst of flavour when a few drops of rose water are added to it. Serve this beverage chilled and garnish with rose petals on top.
Rose Kulfi
Kulfi, a traditional Indian ice cream, when infused with roses makes it a rich and delightful kulfi. The rich flavours and creamy texture of this dish can be achieved by simmering the milk until it gets thick, then adding sugar, cardamom powder, and some essence of finely chopped rose petals and pressing it until it sets. This delicious kufi melts easily in the mouth, leaving a lingering floral flavour.
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Rose Petal Tea
Rose petal tea is a soothing and fragrant drink that is perfect for rainy days. It is a herbal tea made by infusing dried rose petals in hot water. It has a mild, floral taste and is known for its calming effects. To generate a sweet note, you can sweeten it with a bit of honey. Rose Petal Tea is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants, making it a suitable choice for monsoon season delight.
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Roz Bel Laban
Roz Bel Laban is an authentic Egyptian dessert beloved for its comforting and creamy texture. This delightful treat is made with rice, milk, sugar, rose petals, and other simple ingredients and can be enjoyed both warm and chilled. However, it is often served on special occasions and festive gatherings, bringing joy to those who indulge in its sweet flavours.
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Rose Petal Halwa
Rose petals halwa is a yummy dessert option for rainy days and is cooked in beetroot, rose petals, and sugar syrup. To prepare this simple recipe at home, you just need heat ghee in a pan and sauté almonds, pistachios, raisins, and cashew nuts. Add grated beetroot and rose petals; cook for a few minutes, then mix in sugar, cardamom powder, and khoya. Serve this halwa with vanilla ice cream to elevate the aromatic flavour.