During the summer months, traditional drinks like lassi, nimbu paani, and aam ka panna are widely enjoyed across India. These refreshing beverages not only help beat the heat but also replenish electrolytes and keep the body energized. One such drink that stands out, especially in Northern India is Kachi Lassi, also known as Chabeel or Rose Milk. It’s a really simple recipe, which is why I am sharing two posts and videos this week instead of just one!
Kachi Lassi / Chabeel is more than just a tasty beverage, it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. It is especially associated with the Sikh community and is traditionally distributed freely during the hot summer months as an act of service and remembrance.
This tradition goes back to the time of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru. He was martyred in 1606 for refusing to change the Sikh holy book,despite pressure from the Mughal emperor. He went through terrible torture. He was made to sit on a hot plate while burning sand was poured over him. After days of pain, he was finally allowed to bathe in the nearby river, and it’s said that he disappeared into the waters while many people watched.
To remember his courage and kindness, Sikhs set up stalls and give out Chabeel to passersby during the hot summer. It is a way of showing love, care, and service, which are important values in Sikhism. Giving someone a cool drink might seem small, but it is a powerful way to spread kindness and keep Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s spirit alive.
Apart from its spiritual importance, Chabeel is also incredibly effective as a natural summer cooler. The chilled milk and sugar provide a quick energy boost, helping to fight off fatigue and heat exhaustion. The rose flavored syrup and rose petals adds not only fragrance and flavor but is also believed to have calming and cooling effects on the body.
If you want to make it even more nutritious or fancy for a gathering, here are some easy additions:
Chia Seeds (Sabja): Soak 1 teaspoon in a cup of water for 30 minutes, and add to rose milk for extra hydration and texture.
Gond Katira (Badam Pisin/Almond Gum): A natural cooling agent often used in traditional remedies. My mom would ask me to eat it regularly during heavy menstrual flow. While there’s not a lot of scientific research on it, it definitely helped me—placebo or not!
Vanilla Ice cream : You can even serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make it party-friendly!
Enjoy Kachi Lassi (Rose milk, Chabeel) plain or enrich it with the above ingredients.
I hope you give this simple yet meaningful drink a try. Whether for its flavor, health benefits, or the beautiful story behind it, Chabeel is truly a drink with heart.
This Kachi Lassi (Rose Milk, Chabeel) is a refreshing rose-flavoured summer drink perfect for hot days.
Ingredients
- 3tbsp rose flavored syrup (such as Rooh Afza)
- 1 cup milk
- 4-5 cups cold water
- 1-2 cups of ice cubes
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp dried rose petals (optional)
- 2 tbsp Almond Pisin (Katira Gond), soaked over night in 1 cup water
- 2 tsp Chia seeds, soaked overnight in 1/2 cup water
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Grind the sugar and dried rose petals together in a coffee grinder until fine (if using rose petals).
- In a large mixing bowl or pitcher, combine the milk, water, rose syrup, and sugar.
- Mix thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve, or add 1–2 cups of ice cubes and serve immediately.
- Just before drinking, add to your individual glass: Soaked chia seeds, or Soaked almond pisin, or both or A scoop of vanilla ice cream (if desired).
Marcela
I can’t wait to make it!…I remember drinking while I was walking in the Vaisakhi parade in Edmonton. I have lovely memories of Vaisakhi where people gives you food in the streets…..Abrazotes, Marcela
angiesrecipes
Such a pretty colour!
Tandy (Lavender and Lime)
I’ve only ever tried mango lassi, so thank you for introducing me to something new.