Dried rosebuds

Boutons de rose séchés

What it is

Damask roses are picked before dawn in the valleys around Kashan and Isparta, because the aromatic oil in the petals falls away as the sun climbs. The whole buds sold for the kitchen come off that same harvest — they are what the distillers have no use for.

In the kitchen

Infuse the buds whole, but pull them out at five minutes. Left longer, the sepals and stem give up their tannin and the liquid turns dry and bitter behind the perfume.

Goes with

Pistachio Honey Cardamom Lamb Yogurt Almond Saffron Rice

Same species

Rosehip Chinese rose wine Rose water

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