Gulkand is a sweet preserve made with desi gulab and rock sugar. (You can also add jaggery or sugar.)
I personally prefer rock sugar (misri) because it is a natural and healthier alternative to refined sugar. Rock sugar is an unrefined form of sugar that is made from crystalline sugar. It’s good for overall health.
Gulkand is very popular in India, especially among paan lovers. Gulkand is the key ingredient in gulkand wala meetha paan, and every paan lover relishes it after lunch and dinner.
Gulkand can be eaten on its own, or you can add it to desserts, ice creams, milkshakes and lassi.
More than a delightful and delicious indulgence, gulkand is also known for numerous health benefits.
Few health benefits of gulkand
Gulkand is a good source of dietary fibre that helps in digestion and can alleviate constipation.
Cooling properties of gulkand help to balance the body heat, which is beneficial for stomach health. It helps to relieve issues like indigestion, acidity, and bloating.
In moderation, gulkand can be consumed during pregnancy, which helps in alleviating issues like acidity, bloating, and constipation, which are common issues during pregnancy.
Gulkand improves the blood circulation, which is beneficial for overall cardiac function.
Gulkand helps to detoxify the body.
Antioxidants and vitamins in gulkand enhance skin health. It protects skin from damage and reduces premature ageing, improves eyesight.
It is considered as a natural stress reliever; the mild aroma of roses helps to calm the mind and improve mood.
Note
Gulkand is high in sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation, especially by those with diabetes.
Ingredients to make gulkand
- 250 gm fresh desi rose petals
- 250 gm rock sugar powder (misri)
- ½ tsp cardamom powder
- Glass jar with wide mouth
Procedure to make gulkand
- Take fresh and fragrant desi roses and pluck the petals.
- Gently wash the petals and keep in the colander.
- Gently pat dry the petals with the kitchen towel and spread them on clean cloth and let them dry under the fan until excess moisture dries.
- Break rock sugar into small pieces and grind it in the mixie.
- Once the rose petals dry, mix together rose petals, powdered rock sugar, and cardamom powder, and rub with your palms.
- While rubbing, the mixture will release some juice, and a mild fragrance of desi rose will spread around.
- Transfer gulkand to the glass jar, tie a clean cloth on the mouth of the jar, and keep it in sunlight for 12 to 15 days.
- Mix the gulkand with a clean, dry spoon every day.
- Once the gulkand is ready, store it in an airtight glass jar.
