Rose Water?

When I first saw the delicious little French macarons at Ladurée in Paris, I was immediately taken by their rainbow display of flavors. All the usual suspects were present: chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, caramel, but one flavor in particular stood out: rose.

While I was aware that rose was often used in perfumes and occasionally in confectioneries like Turkish delight (which I also love), I had no idea that it was also used in baking. The flavor was so light and fragrant that it inspired me to investigate!

I wasn’t surprised to find out that rose water has been used in food for hundreds if not thousands of years in the Middle East and Asia and that it has cultural and religious significance for many. The water itself is a by-product of the production of rose oil, which is primarily used in perfumes and cosmetics.

After coming across a few recipes, I decided to try making some myself. Rose water and syrup can be a great addition to tea, and desserts like ice cream, rice pudding, crème brûlée, whipped cream, etc.

Here’s what you need to make a simple rose water or syrup:

- A large stainless steel pot with a rounded lid

- A brick (yes, a brick) or a Pyrex loaf pan

- The equivalent of a bag of ice

- About 4 or 5 cups of fresh, rinsed rose petals (depending on the size of your pot), slightly crushed or chopped

- A small bowl or ramekin

* Begin by placing the brick or Pyrex dish in the center of the pot

* Distribute the petals around the brick and cover with water to the level of the brick or higher

* Place the small bowl on top of the brick and place the lid upside-down on the pot

* Bring the water to a gentle boil and cover the lid of the pot with ice

* As the water condenses it should drip down the lid and collect in the bowl

* Check it every so often and collect what is your rose water!

* You can now make simple syrup by adding sugar (and more water if necessary) and reducing by simmering gently in a pan

Finish with a little red food coloring if you'd like to give it the rose look, but any other color would taste as sweet…

GG