Rose Syrup
India • halal_safe
How to Make Rose Syrup (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Rose Syrup, known locally as 'Sirap Ros', is a beloved Malaysian beverage and snack that traces its roots to the country's vibrant multicultural heritage. Often enjoyed chilled during festive occasions and hot afternoons, this sweet, floral drink is a staple at Ramadan bazaars, Hari Raya gatherings, and Indian-Malaysian celebrations. The essence of Rose Syrup lies in its delicate balance of aromatic rosewater and the gentle sweetness of natural cane sugar, sometimes enhanced with pandan leaves for a distinctly Malaysian twist. This refreshing beverage is not only a symbol of celebration but also a testament to Malaysia's fusion of Indian and Malay culinary traditions. Its luminous pink hue and fragrant aroma evoke nostalgia and warmth, making it a popular treat for all ages. Served over ice or mixed with 'santan' (coconut milk) for a creamier version, Rose Syrup offers a cooling respite from tropical heat and is a versatile addition to Malaysian snack tables. Choosing healthier ingredients like less sugar and natural rosewater, you can enjoy the authentic flavors of Sirap Ros while keeping your calorie intake in check.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (about 250ml))
- 2 cups Filtered water (air kosong)
- 1/3 cup Cane sugar (gula tebu)
- 2 tablespoons Rosewater (air mawar)
- 1/2 teaspoon Natural red food coloring (warna merah semulajadi (optional)) - optional
- 1 leaf, knotted Pandan leaf (daun pandan) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Fresh lemon juice (jus limau nipis) - optional
- as needed Ice cubes (ais batu)
- 1/4 cup Santan (coconut milk) (optional for creamier version) - optional
- to taste Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (optional for sugar substitute) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Combine filtered water and cane sugar in a saucepan. Add pandan leaf for aroma.
5 minutes
Use low heat to prevent the sugar from caramelizing.
- 2
Stir continuously until sugar dissolves completely. Remove pandan leaf after 5 minutes.
5 minutes
Allow the syrup to gently simmer to infuse pandan flavor.
- 3
Remove from heat. Let the sugar syrup cool for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Cooling ensures rosewater’s aroma stays fresh when added.
- 4
Mix in rosewater and optional natural red food coloring. Add lemon juice for balance.
2 minutes
Lemon juice helps brighten flavors and reduce sweetness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing natural sweeteners and moderate sugar makes Rose Syrup a healthier snack option compared to processed sodas or artificial drinks. The use of pandan and lemon juice introduces antioxidants and vitamins, while the ability to add santan provides healthy fats without cholesterol. Its hydrating properties make it perfect for Malaysia’s tropical climate, helping you stay refreshed with minimal calorie load. This recipe aligns well with vegetarian and vegan diets, supporting overall wellness.
This traditional Rose Syrup recipe uses less sugar and can be adapted with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, making it lower in calories and safer for glucose-conscious individuals. Rosewater contains antioxidants and can help hydrate the body, while pandan leaves are known for their potential anti-inflammatory properties. The addition of lemon juice increases vitamin C content and adds a refreshing zing. When made with 'santan', you gain healthy fats and potassium from coconut milk. Overall, this drink is vegan, naturally gluten-free, and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh pandan leaves for the best aroma.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust rosewater to taste—too much can overpower the drink.
- 💡Tip 3: For a creamy twist, add chilled santan just before serving.
Storage & Serving
Store Rose Syrup in a clean, airtight glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Stir before serving; do not freeze, as this affects flavor and texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 60.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 65.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 65.0 g |
| Iron | 0.1 mg |
| Calcium | 2.0 mg |
| Sodium | 5.0 mg |
| Potassium | 5.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 1.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 1.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 µg |
| Folate | 0.0 µg |
