Create your own rose blossom syrup: a radiant, sweet recipe
Harvesting & Preserving Edible Rose Blossoms for Culinary Use
Kempten - The sight of blooming roses in the garden is a delightful spectacle. But did you know that these enchanting blossoms can also be transformed into a delectable syrup, perfect for enhancing drinks and desserts?
According to Eva-Maria Herb from the Herb biogarden in Kempten, the secret lies in selecting the right variety of rose. "The more fragrant the rose, the better it will taste in the syrup," she explains. Old and highly fragrant rose varieties, such as Damask or apothecary roses, are particularly suitable, as they offer a stronger aroma. If you're lucky enough to have a dark red rose variety in your garden, the syrup made from these will boast an even more vibrant color.
A word of caution - only use blossoms from untreated, pesticide-free rose bushes. Fresh petals are essential for preserving the authentic taste and aroma.
So, how exactly do you make rose blossom syrup at home? Eva-Maria Herb shares her simple recipe: Combine a liter of water with a kilo of sugar in a pot and add a teaspoon of lemon juice for each liter. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then let it cool down to body temperature. Add about two large handfuls of fresh, fragrant rose petals (fresh, pesticide-free) to a liter of the cooled syrup, then cover and allow it to infuse in the dark for two days. After two days, strain the syrup and cook it again. Fill the strained syrup into hot, sterilized bottles for storage.
For a cleaning and more efficient cooking process, Eva-Maria suggests using a pressure cooker when reheating the syrup. Properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, rose blossom syrup can last for up to a year. Even without additional cooking, it will maintain its quality for several months when refrigerated.
Now that you know how to make and store your very own rose blossom syrup, you can elevate your culinary creations with the rich, floral taste of fresh rose petals. Experiment with rose syrup in various cocktails, teas, lemonades, milk beverages, and desserts like ice creams or cakes. For a visually stunning touch, garnish your creations with dried or fresh rose petals.
Notes:- Use fresh, fragrant rose petals from untreated, pesticide-free rose bushes- Strongly scented rose varieties, such as Damask and apothecary roses, are ideal for rose blossom syrup- The color of the syrup will be more vibrant with dark red rose petals- Store the rose syrup in a clean, airtight container and refrigerate to maintain freshness (up to 2-4 weeks)- Flavor rose syrup cocktails, teas, lemonades, and desserts (e.g., ice creams, cakes) for a unique, floral essence.
Incorporating rose blossom syrup into your cooking and lifestyle can add an unique, floral essence to various food-and-drink creations. This homemade syrup, made from fragrant rose petals, can be used in diverse recipes such as cocktails, teas, lemonades, milk beverages, and desserts like ice creams or cakes. For a visually stunning touch, garnish your culinary creations with dried or fresh rose petals. Remember, only use blossoms from untreated, pesticide-free rose bushes to maintain the authentic taste and aroma.
