A fragrant natural extract distilled from rose petals, with a history as romantic as its name. Rose water has been used for thousands of years in countries of the Middle East, India and the Balkans, not only in the kitchen but also as a cosmetic ingredient and as purification water during religious ceremonies.
Rose water may be used as a flavouring instead of natural vanilla or almond extracts, and lends its exotic perfume to many creams, sweet dishes and drinks. It can be purchased from health food shops, specialty delicatessens or at some chemists. Natural rose extract is also available from the same outlets and is highly concentrated. Use only a few drops if substituting for rose water.