recipes

Easy Summer Cooler Recipe: Nikita Varma’s Gond Katira Rose Elixir

Beat the summer heat with the Gond Katira Rose Elixir, the blush-toned, refreshing drink by Chef Nikita Varma

Contributed By

Nishtha Kawrani

June 3, 2025

Gond Katira Rose Elixir

Gond Katira Rose Elixir

Summer’s warmth can be uplifting, but staying healthy and hydrated in the sweltering heat is essential. While we often reach for familiar coolers, sometimes a refreshing twist is just what we need. Enter the Gond Katira Rose Elixir—a beautiful blush-toned drink that’s as soothing as it is striking. Not only does it look pretty, but it also acts as a natural coolant that helps beat the heat.

This unique recipe comes from Nikita Varma, a passionate chef and food blogger based in Delhi.

Gond katira (edible gum) is a small, uneven, translucent crystal prized for its cooling properties. They also boast antibacterial, anticancer, and antioxidant benefits. Paired with fragrant rose petals, the drink becomes a refreshing and hydrating option, perfect for hot days when you’re feeling drained. Bonus: It also aids digestion.

Quick Info
Prep Time 5 min
Cook Time 0 min
Total Time 5 min
Servings 1
Difficulty easy
Ingredients
  • Soaked Gond Katira - 1 tbsp
  • Rose Water or Gulkand Syrup - 1 tbsp
  • Chilled Milk (or almond/coconut milk) - 200 ml
Instructions
Step-1
Soak gond katira in water overnight. In the morning, rinse and fluff it to get a translucent jelly texture.
Step-2
In a glass, add the soaked gond katira and rose water/gulkand syrup.
Step-3
Pour chilled milk over it. Stir gently and serve cold.
Recipe
Prep Time 5 min
Cook Time 0 min
Total Time 5 min
Servings 1
Difficulty easy
Ingredients
  • Soaked Gond Katira - 1 tbsp
  • Rose Water or Gulkand Syrup - 1 tbsp
  • Chilled Milk (or almond/coconut milk) - 200 ml
Instructions
Step-1
Soak gond katira in water overnight. In the morning, rinse and fluff it to get a translucent jelly texture.
Step-2
In a glass, add the soaked gond katira and rose water/gulkand syrup.
Step-3
Pour chilled milk over it. Stir gently and serve cold.
Note:
  • Double the ingredients when cooking for more people to ensure everyone gets a fluffy stack.
  • Swap out eggs for mashed bananas, yogurt, or flaxseed mix if you're vegetarian or allergic to eggs.
  • Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for extra soft and airy pancakes.
  • Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking to get fluffier pancakes.
  • Cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning while ensuring even cooking.
  • Add vanilla extract or cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
  • Top with fresh fruits, nuts, or honey for a delicious and healthy twist.
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