This Greek rose petal sweet preserve, made with the aromatic petals of Centifolia Roses or Damask roses, is a true delicacy that delights the senses.
This traditional Greek treat captures the essence of these beautiful flowers, combining their fragrance with sugar and lemon juice to create.
What roses have culinary use?
Several rose varieties have culinary uses, as their petals are edible and can be incorporated into various dishes and recipes. Here are some roses commonly used in culinary applications:
- Rosa damascena (Damask Rose): The petals of Damask roses are highly prized for their delicate flavor and fragrance. They are commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines to infuse desserts, beverages, and sweet treats with a floral essence as well as to make rose water.
- Rosa centifolia (Cabbage Rose): The petals of Cabbage Roses are known for their sweet and subtly spicy flavor. They are often used in culinary creations such as floral syrups, jellies, and baked goods.
- Rosa rugosa (Japanese Rose): The petals of Japanese Roses have a slightly fruity flavor with hints of apple and rose. They can be used to make rose-infused tea, jams, and even added to salads for a touch of color and flavor.
- Rosa gallica (French Rose): The petals of French Roses have a slightly bitter taste but are still used in culinary applications. They can be crystallized, added to desserts, or used to make rose-flavored sugar.
How to make the Rose Petal Sweet Preserve:
It’s important to note that when using rose petals in cooking, it’s crucial to ensure that they are free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Begin by harvesting fresh Damask roses in the morning.
Carefully remove the petals from the stems, discarding any wilted or damaged ones.
Wash the petals thoroughly and drain them using kitchen paper.
Next, place the rose petals in a bowl and gently mix them with half of the sugar.
Allow them to sit for at least an hour, as the sugar will help soften the petals and enhance their flavor.
In the meantime, prepare the syrup by combining the remaining sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar melts and it starts to boil.
Once the syrup starts boiling, add the rose petals to the saucepan and simmer the mixture over low heat. Stir the petals regularly with a wooden spoon for about 30 minutes or until the temperature reaches 105oC (221oF).
This will help the syrup bind with the petals, resulting in a luscious preserve.
Finally, add the lemon juice to the mixture and stir for an additional minute. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the preserve slightly cool.
Then transfer it to sterilized jars for storage.
The preserve can be enjoyed on its own or used as a delightful topping for desserts such as ryzogalo (rice pudding) Greek yogourt or ice cream.
Greek Rose Petal Sweet Preserve
This Greek rose petal sweet preserve, made with the aromatic petals of Centifolia Roses or Damask roses, is a true delicacy that delights the senses.
Ingredients
- 300g rose petals from Rosa damascena (Damask rose) or Centifolia
- 300g sugar
- 300ml water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash the petals thoroughly and drain them using kitchen paper.
- Next, place the rose petals in a bowl and gently mix them with half of the sugar.
- Allow them to sit for at least an hour, as the sugar will help soften the petals and enhance their flavor.
- In the meantime, prepare the syrup by combining the remaining sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar melts and it starts to boil.
- Once the syrup starts boiling, add the rose petals to the saucepan and simmer the mixture over low heat. Stir the petals regularly with a wooden spoon for about 30 minutes or until the temperature reaches 105oC (221oF).
- Finally, add the lemon juice to the mixture and stir for an additional minute. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the preserve slightly cool.
- Then transfer it to sterilized jars for storage.
- The preserve can be enjoyed on its own or used as a delightful topping for desserts like yogurt or ice cream.
Nutrition Information
Yield 2 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 710Total Fat 0gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 22mgCarbohydrates 157gFiber 0gSugar 156gProtein 1g
"These values are automatically calculated and offered for guidance only. Their accuracy is not guaranteed."
Fruit Preserves (Glyka tou Koutaliou)
Fruit preserves, called "glyka tou koutaliou", served in little plates, are an inherent part of Greek culture, where they are offered to guests, as an act of hospitality. Almost any fruit, even vegetables, flowers and nuts can be made into a preserve.
Here is a selection of my favourite fruit preserves.
Glyko Karydaki - Fresh Walnuts Preserved in Syrup
Karydaki, which means young walnut, is one of the best Greek traditional spoon sweets.  The preserve is made with unripe green walnuts at the end of Spring.
Chestnut Preserve (Glyko Kastano) and Marrons Glacés
Chestnut Preserve (candied chestnuts) or Marrons Glacés, are a wonderful winter treat and a perfect gift during Christmas or other occasions.
Glyka tou koutaliou (Greek Spoon Sweets)
Preserve your fruit, vegetables or nuts! See how to make fruit preserves with these tips and recipes.
How to fix Spoiled Fruit Preserves
If your fruit preserves or jams have mildew or if the sugar has crystalized, don't throw them away as these can be easily fixed.
Kopiaste and Kali Orexi!
