Kewra Water: What is it?
If you're looking for a kewra water seller, visit our Food Index or just buy it on Amazon by clicking here.
Kewra Water is a transparent, aromatic liquid that is extracted and distilled from pandanus flowers. Also known as Kewda Water or Panadanas Water, this extract bears a close resemblance with rose water. Pandanus – i.e. pandan P. odoratissimus – flowers are used in savory dishes and desserts in Southeast Asia and India.
image source:FoodPorty.com
Origin of Kewra Water
The pandanus tree is native to Australasia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. However, Kewra Water is from Northern India, where it is used as a flavoring. The following coastal areas are known for their rich and aromatic pandanus plantations:
- Patrapur
- Chhatrapur
- Chikiti
- Rangeilunda
However, over 95 percent of the world’s Kewra flowers are obtained and exported from the Ganjam district, India. It is believed that the pandanus flowers from coastal regions exhibit floral flavors that rivaled inland varieties. Moreover, Kewra Water is also used extensively in the traditional Indian perfumery industry as a functional fragrance. In the Western world, this liquid can be used as a worthy alternative to orange or rose essence. Kewra essence is also much more concentrated than regular essences. And this is why you should be extremely careful when using it. You should either use tiny drops of the extractor dilute with plain water before use.
The pandanus or screwpine tree thrives extensively in swampy environments. It is, however, the male flower that is used for extracting and distilling the aromatic Kewra Water.
Kewra Water and Culinary Uses
This pandanus liquid extract can be used for flavoring meats, desserts, and drinks. But this practice occurs primarily in countries like Bangladesh, India, northern Asia, Southeast Asia, and Pakistan.
What is more, native sweets – such as ras malai, etc. – can be soaked in Kewra Water to enhance their flavors.
The fruity and heady flavor of the pandanus extract also makes it an excellent addition to savory or sweet dishes. Kewra Water is used in the aromatic rice dishes of Kashmiri, Pakistan, and Moghul cuisine.
At times, Kewra Water is sprinkled by hand over rice recipes before they are served. It also combines exceptionally well with other floral liquids like rose water, etc. and used together on recipes.
At other times, however, Kewra Water can be consumed as a health drink.
How to Store Bottled Kewra Water
You can purchase Kewra Water online from any Indian grocery store or eCommerce site. However, if you are careless with it, the flavor of the liquid essence may get lost.
image source: www.FoodPorty.com
This is why you should, therefore, store the bottled extract in a cool, dry place. At room temperature, the flavor of Kewra can be preserved for a year. But under refrigeration, it can remain for up to 4 years. So, make sure the cap of the bottle is closed tightly immediately after use.
Benefits of Kewra Water
- Contains antioxidant properties required for combatting cancer.
- Helps in mental relaxation as the floral fragrance of the extract has a calming effect.
- Enhances skin health by making your skin glow and soft.
- It is potent enough to prevent pimples and acne by getting rid of dirt from your skiin
Are rose water and kewra water the same?
Rose water and kewra water are not the same. Rose water is a liquid made from the distillation of rose petals, while kewra water is a floral water made from the flower of the pandanus plant, also known as the screw pine. Both rose water and kewra water are used in cooking and in perfumes, but they have different aromas and flavor profiles. Rose water has a distinct floral scent and a slightly sweet taste, while kewra water has a more subtle, woody, and earthy aroma.
Is kewra water healthy?
Kewra water is often used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and has a number of potential health benefits. Some people believe that kewra water can help to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and even act as an aphrodisiac. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific research to support these claims, and more studies are needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of kewra water. In general, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements or remedies to your routine.
What's the nutritional content of kewra water?
Kewra water is made by distilling the flowers of the pandanus plant and is commonly used to add flavor to desserts and drinks.
As far as nutritional content is concerned, kewra water is very low in calories and does not contain any significant amounts of nutrients. It is mostly made up of water, so it does not provide any significant amount of nutrients such as protein, fat, or carbohydrates.
What do we call kewra water in English?
In English, kewra water is also known as pandanus water or screwpine water. It is a fragrant water made from the flower of the pandanus plant and is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It has a sweet, floral aroma and is often used to flavor desserts and drinks.
Conclusion
Small drops of Kewra per time are more than enough to use for anything you have in mind. Excessive usage can cause adverse effects.
