Rose water is made by distilling the petals of the rose flower. The process involves heating the petals in water, collecting the steam that is released, and then condensing the steam back into a liquid form. It is important to use fresh, pesticide-free roses to make the best quality rose water.
Method 1: Stovetop Method
One popular way to prepare rose water is by using the stovetop method. To do this, you will need:
– Fresh rose petals (around 2 cups)
– Distilled water (4-5 cups)
– A large pot with a lid
– A heat-proof bowl
– Ice cubes
First, rinse the rose petals under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, place the petals in the pot and add enough distilled water to cover them completely. Place the lid on the pot and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes.
Next, place the heat-proof bowl in the pot, making sure that it is floating on the surface of the water. Place the lid back on the pot upside down, so that the handle is in the pot. Add ice cubes on top of the lid to cool the steam that will be released during the distillation process.
Simmer on low heat until the water has evaporated completely and the bowl is almost full of liquid. Remove the bowl from the pot and allow it to cool. Store the rose water in a clean glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Method 2: Solar Method
Another way to prepare rose water is by using the solar method. This is a more traditional way to make rose water, and it takes longer, but it is also much more eco-friendly. To do this, you will need:
– Fresh rose petals (around 2 cups)
– Distilled water (4-5 cups)
– A large glass jar with a lid
– A sunny day
First, rinse the rose petals under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, place the petals in the glass jar and add enough distilled water to cover them completely. Place the lid on the jar and shake it to distribute the petals evenly.
Place the jar in a sunny spot outside, where it will be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours. The heat of the sun will cause the petals to release their fragrance and oils, creating the rose water.
After 6 hours, strain the contents of the jar through a cheesecloth into a clean glass jar. Store the rose water in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Method 3: Instant Pot Method
If you have an Instant Pot, you can also use it to make rose water. This method is quick and easy, and it produces high-quality rose water. To do this, you will need:
– Fresh rose petals (around 2 cups)
– Distilled water (4-5 cups)
– An Instant Pot
– A heat-proof bowl
– A trivet
First, rinse the rose petals under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, place the petals in the heat-proof bowl and add enough distilled water to cover them completely.
Place the trivet in the Instant Pot and pour in enough water to cover the bottom. Place the bowl on top of the trivet, making sure it doesn’t touch the water at the bottom.
Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once it is finished, release the pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release to release the remaining steam.
Carefully remove the bowl from the Instant Pot using oven mitts. Strain the contents of the bowl through a cheesecloth into a clean glass jar. Store the rose water in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Conclusion
Making rose water is easy and fun, and there are many different methods to choose from. Whether you prefer the stovetop, solar, or Instant Pot method, the key is to use fresh, pesticide-free roses and to store the rose water in a clean glass jar in the refrigerator.
Rose water has many benefits for the skin and can be used as a facial toner, a makeup remover, or even as a refreshing mist on a hot day. It can also be used in cooking to add a subtle floral flavour to desserts and other dishes.
So next time you have some fresh roses on hand, give one of these methods a try and enjoy the sweet scent and benefits of rose water!