This podcast discusses the history, versatility, and rising popularity of rose water in desserts and cocktails. The hosts also touch on topics such as the symbolism of roses, immersive theaters, Finnish eating and sauna rituals, and express gratitude towards listeners and sponsors.
Rosewater has a long history, being used in perfumery, cosmetics, and religious ceremonies dating back to ancient Persia, and is now experiencing a culinary resurgence in the US.
Rosewater can be used to add a floral spice and complexity to a wide range of recipes, including both sweet and savory dishes, but should be used sparingly to avoid overpowering the flavors.
Deep dives
The History and Uses of Rosewater
Rosewater is a popular extract of rose petals used for flavoring and non-culinary purposes. It has a velvety, heady scent and is commonly used in creamy dishes, sweet baked goods, candies, frozen desserts, sweetened beverages, and more. Rosewater is obtained through distillation, separating the oils from roses through boiling and collecting the vapors. It can be used to add a floral spice and complexity to various recipes, including cookies, cakes, pastries, lemonade, milk, yogurt dips, and even savory dishes. Rosewater has a long history, with references dating back to ancient Persia and its role in perfumery, cosmetics, and religious ceremonies. It was once popular in the US but declined in culinary use as vanilla became more widely available. However, rosewater is experiencing a resurgence and is now being used in desserts and cocktails.
The Significance of Rosewater in Different Cultures
Rosewater holds cultural significance in various regions. In China, it was cultivated for over 5000 years and used in paintings, festivals, and religious ceremonies. In Greek mythology, roses were associated with Aphrodite and their petals were thought to have medicinal benefits. Rosewater played a role in Roman homes as an air freshener and skincare product. Persian cuisine embraced rosewater, using it in dishes, drinks, and desserts. The Ottoman Empire incorporated rosewater into Turkish delight. In the US, rosewater was once a common ingredient in desserts but was overshadowed by vanilla. Despite its decline, rosewater is making a comeback in the culinary world.
The Preparation and Usage of Rosewater
Rosewater preparation involves distilling rose petals with water or steam. This process separates the oils and captures the essence of the roses. It can be done at home by collecting vapors from simmering petals or by simmering and straining petals in water. Rosewater has a strong flavor and should be used sparingly in recipes, especially for those who are not accustomed to its potency. It imparts a beautiful floral note to a wide range of dishes, including cookies, cakes, pastries, lemonade, milk, yogurt dips, and even savory foods. While rosewater is mainly used in sweet recipes, there are historical accounts of its use in savory dishes as well. It is important to start with small amounts in recipes to avoid overpowering the flavors.
Current Market and Health Claims of Rosewater
Rosewater is an economically significant product, with about half of the global market dedicated to cosmetics and less than a quarter to food and beverages. The market for rosewater is expected to double in the next decade. Although rosewater is not typically consumed in large quantities for nutritional purposes, it contains compounds that have potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral properties. However, more research is needed in this area. Rosewater has a rich history and cultural significance, as well as a range of culinary applications, making it a versatile and intriguing ingredient in the modern kitchen.
This fragrant flavoring has been favored for millennia, and was ubiquitous in American desserts before vanilla became affordable. Anney and Lauren dip into the history and science behind rose water.
