Rose water is a fragrant, flavored water with a rich history in Lebanese, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines.

Rose water is a fragrant liquid with a rich history that has been enjoyed since the Middle Ages. Extracted from the damask rose through a meticulous distillation process, this is a versatile ingredient for cooking and a favorite for skincare.

Growing up in our Lebanese American family, we used Orange Blossom Water far more than rose water! My mother always found rose water “too strong.” But the key is using this special ingredient sparingly, as well as using pure rose water that is not an “extract” and that doesn’t contain additives other than rose petals. It makes a wonderful addition to many recipes.

What is Rose Water?

Rose water, also known as rose hydrosol, is a byproduct created during the steam distillation of fresh rose petals to extract essential rose oil. It has made a significant impact in culinary traditions, especially in Middle Eastern cuisine; it is cherished for its delicate floral notes and is often used to enhance both sweet and savory dishes. The fragrant liquid carries an alluring aroma and offers various health benefits too.

Uses for Rose Water

1. Flavoring: Rose water can be a perfect choice for enhancing the flavor of desserts. It adds floral notes to ice cream, rice pudding, and Turkish delight. Roses are in the same family as strawberries, and the two pair beautifully together (try it in strawberry jam and raspberry jelly). It will enhance most any recipe with a red berry emphasis. A simple (and very small!) splash on fruit salad is aromatic and wonderful.
2. Savory Dishes: It’s not just for desserts; try it to elevate savory dishes too. Add a small amount to rice dishes or stews to introduce sophisticated flavors.
3. Beverages and Cocktails: Use it to flavor drinks, from refreshing and traditional Lebanese lemonade (try Strawberry Rose Lemonade) to artisanal cocktails. A few drops can transform a simple beverage like a cup of tea. 
4. Baking and Confectionery: Incorporating rose water into baked goods adds a hint of floral flavor that can elevate cookies, cakes, and pastries. It works beautifully and harmoniously with ingredients like vanilla extract. Try my recipes for Lemon Bundt Cake with Raspberry Rose Glaze and Raspberry Rose Marshmallows).
5. Skincare. Rose water is one of the most ancient beauty products and found in skincare routine products, essential oil, bath salts. Rose water is prized for having anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce skin redness and skin irritation, while promoting a dewy glow!

Where to buy it

Find pure rose water in Middle Eastern markets or online. My favorites come from Lebanon and you can find Lebanese rose water in my shop!

How to Make Your Own Rose Water

Homemade rose water is a fun project that ensures high-quality ingredients, with no additives–but it may not have the same intensity of fragrance and flavor as professionally distilled flower waters. To give it a try at home, do use organic rose petals to keep your rose water edible and free of chemicals. Here’s a simple recipe to follow:

Easy Homemade Rose Water Recipe

Ingredients:

• Fresh organic rose petals (picking from your own roses is ideal)
• Distilled water or hot water

Instructions:

1. Rinse the fresh rose petals thoroughly to eliminate any impurities.
2. Place the petals in a pot, adding enough distilled water or hot water to fully cover them.
3. Cover the pot and gently simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, until the petals lose their color and transfer their essence into the water. Remove from the heat.
4. Once cooled, strain the liquid using a fine mesh sieve into a clean spray bottle or jar; discard the petals. 

Storage

Store rose water in a cool, dry place in your pantry. It will last up to one year, though over time it may lose the strength of its aroma and flavor. 

How to Use Rose Water

Some tasters like my mom find rose water in food to be too perfume-y. You can avoid this by using a very small amount, knowing that a little goes a long way.

• Adjust for Strength: Remember that it can be potent. Start with just a few drops and adjust according to taste, whether it’s in a drink, dessert, or savory dish.
• Pairing Flavors: Rose water pairs beautifully with flavors like strawberry, vanilla, citrus, and almond. Experiment by blending these components in your recipes for delightful outcomes.
• Garnishing: A light drizzle over a finished dish or dessert can serve as both a flavor and a visual enhancement.

Health Benefits

In addition to its culinary uses, it carries a wealth of health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, it may help in reducing potential lipid peroxidation in the body. Plus, its antibacterial properties can promote a healthy digestive system.