Cooking

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The scorching summer sun makes its presence felt, there’s no better way to cool down than with a traditional Indian frozen treat — kulfi. And when infused with the romantic fragrance of roses, the classic dessert gets an even more delightful twist. Gulab kulfi, with its rich creamy texture and floral undertones, is the perfect dessert to serve after a hearty meal or to enjoy on a lazy summer afternoon. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few ingredients and a little patience.

Kulfi is often referred to as Indian ice cream, but unlike the churned variety, kulfi is denser and more intense in flavor because it’s made by slow-cooking milk until it reduces and thickens naturally. In this gulab kulfi version, rose water or rose syrup is added to infuse the dessert with that unmistakable floral essence that’s cooling, aromatic, and irresistibly summery.

To prepare this easy gulab kulfi, start by simmering full-fat milk in a heavy-bottomed pan. Stir it frequently to avoid burning and allow it to reduce by nearly half. This slow process creates a thick, creamy base that gives kulfi its signature richness. Once the milk has thickened, sweeten it with sugar and stir until it dissolves completely. Now comes the fragrant magic: add rose water or a good-quality rose syrup, such as Rooh Afza, depending on your preference for subtlety or sweetness. For an extra luxurious touch, you can stir in a few crushed rose petals or even some gulkand (rose petal jam), which adds both texture and depth of flavor.

Chopped pistachios or almonds can also be folded into the mixture at this stage if you enjoy a bit of crunch in your kulfi. Then pour the kulfi mix into molds or small bowls, cover them, and let them freeze for at least six to eight hours. Traditionally, kulfi is set in small matka pots, but silicone molds or popsicle makers work just as well for a modern kitchen. Once frozen solid, the gulab kulfi is ready to be unmolded and served.

When it comes to presentation, keep it simple and elegant. You can garnish the kulfi with a few dried rose petals, slivers of pistachio, or a light drizzle of rose syrup for a stunning and flavorful finish. The result is a luscious dessert that’s cool and creamy, with every bite carrying the subtle sweetness and perfume of rose.

Gulab kulfi is more than just a sweet treat — it’s a nostalgic throwback to childhood summers, bustling street vendors, and family gatherings. The floral flavor of rose also offers natural cooling properties, making this dessert ideal for combatting the heat during the warmer months. It’s vegetarian-friendly and can even be made vegan by substituting dairy milk with almond or coconut milk and adjusting the sugar to taste.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a homemade indulgence, this gulab kulfi recipe is a no-fuss way to enjoy a traditional Indian dessert with a fragrant twist. It brings together the creaminess of kulfi and the elegance of rose in a way that feels both comforting and refreshing. With just a little preparation, you can create a summer dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, and one that’s sure to impress your guests — or simply satisfy your own sweet cravings.