Rose Water – a touch of freshness

Rose Water is widely used in Indian cooking. I read somewhere that it is prepared by steeping Rose petals in Water. Rose Water has many medicinal, cosmetic and therapeutic uses. However, since Life Without Alu? is a food blog, we will be concentrating on the culinary uses of Rose Water in this article. 

I think it’s amazing how we associate the floral fragrances with perfume and cosmetics. Believe me they do bring their own exciting flavor and fragrance when added in any dish. I am sure you have used Vanilla Extract while baking. Rose Water also adds a touch of beautiful aroma in the dishes. Be it Lassi, Kabab or Biryani I just love sprinkling a few drops for that divine fragrance. 

Now Rose Water is quite a conflicted ingredient. You will either love it or hate it. So, before using it in any dish try adding it in a beverage (like Lassi). That way you will be able to experience its fragrant, floral flavor without putting in much effort.

Before buying Rose Water make sure to check the expiration date. Also, see that it is pure Rose Water and not some diluted or synthetic stuff. Believe me good stuff makes a lot of difference. You will feel the subtle floral fragrance lifting your senses, which is not possible with artificial cheap stuff. 

While using make sure not to exceed the amount given in the recipe. Rose Water is very floral and aromatic and like Vanilla extract should be used carefully.

I always keep a small bottle of Rose Water in my fridge, even though I may not use it that often. I read somewhere that you can use it in champagne cocktails and non alcoholic punches/ summer spritzers for a touch of flavor. Mediterranean cuisine is also famous for dishes prepared with Rose Water. 

In India we have a summer drink called Rooh Afza (Rooh meaning Soul and Afza meaning Refresher). It is a non-alcoholic concentrated squash prepared with different varieties of herbs, fruits and flowers. It is dark pink in color and Rose flavored. It tastes sweet and fragrant and is served as a summer drink in Northern India. Growing up, this used to be my favorite drink after returning home from school. I think Rose has a very calming effect. It instantly soothes and comforts your senses and you immediately feel relaxed. Especially if you have faced the wrath and humidity of summer sun you will absolutely like a Rose flavored beverage.

So, next time, your recipe asks for Rose Water, don’t skip it. Get a small bottle and try it. I am sure you will fall in love with this beautiful fragrance. 

Recommended Reading:

• Loknath wali Meethi Lassi (Sweet Yogurt based drink)
• Awadhi Mutton Biryani
• Debarshi’s Chicken Tikka Biryani
• Thandai (Refreshing Indian Drink)