Rose water has a long history of culinary uses, particularly as a flavouring agent. Its delicate floral aroma and taste make it a popular addition to various dishes and beverages. In cooking, rose water can be incorporated into desserts, such as cakes, biscuits, and ice creams, to infuse them with a subtle, sweet fragrance. It is also commonly used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines to add a distinctive touch to dishes like biryanis, milk-based desserts, and aromatic rice puddings.
Aside from its culinary applications, rose water is known for its calming and relaxing effects on the mind and body. It is often used in aromatherapy to alleviate stress, anxiety, and promote better sleep. The scent of rose water is believed to have mood-enhancing properties and can help create a sense of tranquillity. Simply adding a few drops of rose water to a warm bath or spraying it on pillows and linens can create a soothing environment that promotes relaxation.
Additionally, rose water is a popular ingredient in traditional remedies for various ailments. It is often used in natural remedies for sore throat and cough relief, as well as to ease digestive discomfort. Some people also use rose water as a natural eye rinse to soothe tired and irritated eyes.
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Why make your own Rose Water?
Call me complex, want to make use of natural materials, prefer organic? I don’t know. Perhaps it was just my love of Turkish delight as a kid. But it drove me to make my own, particularly when I was out, getting spiked by the dog roses, picking petals. Somehow the scent led me to make my own.. Whilst I was also thinking about my favour wild rose petal jam recipe.. And the Rose Jam Roly Poly that I make in the winter months… I digress, here’s that recipe.
Wild Rose Petal Water Recipe
Ingredients:
Fresh wild rose petals
Distilled, mineral or filtered water
Instructions:
Gather a handful of fresh wild rose petals. Ensure that the petals are clean and free from any insects or dirt. It's best to pick the petals early in the morning when they are at their freshest.
Rinse the rose petals gently under cold water to remove any impurities.
Place the rose petals in a clean glass jar or container.
Boil distilled or filtered water and let it cool slightly. Pour the hot water over the rose petals, ensuring that they are completely submerged.
Cover the jar with a lid or a piece of cloth to prevent dust or debris from entering. Let the mixture steep for at least 24 hours, allowing the rose petals to infuse their fragrance and essence into the water.
After 24 hours, strain the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the rose petals. Squeeze the petals gently to extract any remaining liquid.
Transfer the rose petal water to a clean, airtight bottle or container. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and extend its shelf life.
Summing up
If you have or plan to make this, well done you! A myriad of recipes is now available to you, from North African to Middle Eastern, this rose water will take you on a magical journey. It isn’t difficult to make, and it is very rewarding.
Rewarding as it is, it isn’t as rewarding as the next level your wild rose water can now help you leap to. That is to make your very own, wild rose Turkish delight!
We hope you enjoy.
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