May Flowers - A Rose by Any Name

Culinary Creations from My Heirloom Rose Garden

Nestled in my garden, among the buzzing of bees and the whisper of the wind, grows a splendid array of heirloom roses. I absolutely love them, actually, I’m pretty obsessed with them. These aren't just any roses; they are varieties that have been cherished and preserved through generations, often defined as those cultivated before the 20th century. They are the stars of my garden, grown organically, ensuring that every petal is as pure as it is perfumed.

Saving petals from all my roses but this one, Rosamundi, is a personal favorite of mine for her glorious bi-colored blooms and delightful fruit and incense flavor and scent!

Heirloom roses, revered for their distinctive fragrances and rich historical roots, come in a variety of enchanting types. Among my cherished varieties, the 'Zephirine Drouhin', an abundant climber renowned for its vibrant pink blooms and captivating scent, stands out for its ease of care and striking appearance. The 'Apothecary’s Rose', historically known as Rosa gallica officinalis, is famed not only for its deep pink to crimson petals but also for its medicinal properties that date back to ancient times. Another exquisite variety, 'Harlow Carr', boasts lush, deep pink flowers that exude a strong, intoxicating fragrance, making it a favorite among rose enthusiasts. For those interested in growing these heirloom treasures, online nurseries like David Austin Roses and Heirloom Roses offer an excellent selection. These reputable sources provide high-quality plants along with comprehensive care instructions to help both novice and experienced gardeners create their own rose-filled sanctuaries.

I wish that you could smell this beautiful Harlow Carr rose.

As a devoted gardener and cook, I've found myriad ways to bring the beauty and fragrance of these roses from the soil to the table. From potpourri to culinary delights, the versatility of these petals is boundless. Because it’s May and the roses are absolutely exuberant, I'm excited to share with you three of my favorite recipes: rose salt, rose sugar, and a divine rose syrup, all made from the petals of my beloved heirloom roses.

If space in your garden is limited to a single heirloom rose, the Apothecary Rose is an exemplary choice. Esteemed for centuries for its versatility, this beautiful bloom has been utilized in everything from herbal teas to healing tonics. Photograph courtesy of David Austin Roses

Rose Salt

This fragrant rose salt is a simple yet splendid way to infuse a floral touch into your meals. It's particularly delightful sprinkled over a fresh salad or used to season a tender roasted chicken or piece of fish.

You will need:

- 1 cup of fresh heirloom rose petals

- 1/2 cup of coarse sea salt

Method:

1. Collect petals in the early morning, when their fragrance peaks. Rinse gently and pat dry.

2. Spread the petals out to air dry for a day or two until completely dehydrated.

3. In a mortar and pestle, combine the dry petals with sea salt and grind lightly, just enough to infuse the salt with the rose essence.

4. Store in a charming glass jar, which sits beautifully on a kitchen shelf and makes a perfect homemade gift.

Rose Sugar

Ideal for sweetening a cup of tea or as a topping for warm, buttery scones, rose sugar captures the essence of my garden in every crystalline grain.

Ingredients :

- 1 cup of fresh heirloom rose petals that you’ve dried - Follow the previous instructions

- 2 cups of granulated sugar

Method

1. Alternate layers of petals and sugar in a sealable jar, starting and ending with sugar.

2. Let the jar sit in a cool, dark place for a week, shaking gently occasionally to distribute the flavor.

3. After a week, sift out the petals or leave them for a decorative touch in your culinary creations.

Rose Syrup

This syrup is a luxurious addition to homemade cocktails, drizzled over desserts or swirled into sparkling water for a refreshing summer drink.

Ingredients

- 1 cup of water

- 2 cups of granulated sugar

- 1 cup of heavily scented, fresh heirloom rose petals- not dried

Method

1. Dissolve the sugar in water over medium heat. Add the clean rose petals and simmer for about 10 minutes.

2. Remove from heat and allow to steep as it cools, infusing the syrup with the rich color and fragrance of the petals.

3. Strain and store the syrup in a sterilized bottle in the refrigerator, where it can bring a touch of floral elegance to your drinks for up to a month.

Growing heirloom roses organically not only benefits the environment but ensures that the flavors and fragrances in these recipes are as intense and untainted as nature intended. Each dish and drink made with these petals carries a piece of history, a breath of my garden, and a bloom of flavor.

Whether you're a fellow gardening enthusiast or cook or both, I sincerely hope these rose-infused recipes spark your imagination and entice you to experiment with the subtle and exquisite flavors of heirloom roses. There’s a special kind of joy that comes from incorporating the natural beauty of the roses you’ve grown into your culinary creations, turning ordinary dishes into extraordinary experiences. So, gather some petals, let your kitchen be your canvas, and delight in the floral notes that only heirloom roses can provide. Happy cooking, and may these recipes bring a touch of the garden's grace to your table.