Rose Hip

Rose hips are the reddish-orange, berry-like fruit that remains after a rose flower has bloomed and the petals have fallen off. These small fruits are known for their tart, tangy flavor with subtle floral notes, reminiscent of cranberries or apples with a hint of rose. Their texture can vary depending on ripeness, ranging from firm and slightly crunchy when underripe to soft and slightly sticky when fully ripe. Rose hips are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a popular ingredient for jams, jellies, teas, and medicinal preparations. Sourcing rose hips typically involves foraging after the first frost, when their flavor becomes sweeter and less astringent.

Common Uses

  • Making rose hip jam or jelly: Rose hips are ideal for creating homemade jams and jellies, offering a unique tart-sweet flavor that's a delightful alternative to traditional fruit spreads. They are often combined with sugar and pectin to achieve the desired consistency and sweetness, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful condiment perfect for toast, scones, or as a glaze for meats.
  • Brewing rose hip tea for a vitamin C boost: Dried rose hips are frequently used to make a flavorful and healthful herbal tea, celebrated for its high Vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Simply steep dried rose hips in hot water for a few minutes to extract their beneficial compounds and enjoy a warm, comforting beverage that can help support the immune system.
  • Creating rose hip syrup for cocktails and desserts: Rose hip syrup is a versatile ingredient made by simmering rose hips in water and sugar, then straining the mixture to create a concentrated sweet and tart liquid. It can be used to add a unique flavor dimension to cocktails, drizzled over desserts, or incorporated into sauces and dressings.
  • Infusing rose hip oil for skincare: Rose hips contain valuable oils that can be extracted to create a nourishing skincare ingredient. Rose hip oil is known for its potential to reduce the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and sun damage, making it a popular addition to serums, creams, and lotions. The oil can be extracted through cold pressing or infusion methods.
  • Adding rose hips to soups and sauces for tartness: The tartness of rose hips makes them a great addition to savory dishes, such as soups, sauces, and stews. They can be added whole or chopped to simmer alongside other ingredients, imparting a subtle fruity tang that complements richer flavors. Rose hips pair well with game meats, poultry, and vegetables.
  • Using rose hip powder as a natural food coloring and flavoring: Dried rose hips can be ground into a fine powder and used as a natural food coloring and flavoring agent. The powder can add a subtle reddish hue and tart flavor to baked goods, smoothies, and other culinary creations. It's also a great way to add a boost of antioxidants and vitamins to your diet.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

162.0kcal (8.1%)

Protein

0.5g (1%)

Carbs

38.2g (13.89%)

Sugars

17.6g (35.26%)

Healthy Fat

0.2g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamin C, boosting immunity and fighting off infections.
  • High in antioxidants, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • May reduce inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.
  • Supports healthy skin by promoting collagen production.
  • Can aid in weight management due to its fiber content and potential to reduce appetite.
  • May improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Storage Tips

Store dried rose hips in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place to maintain their quality. Properly stored, they can last for up to a year. Fresh rose hips should be refrigerated and used within a few days. Rose hip puree or jam should also be refrigerated after opening. Freezing is not generally recommended for whole rose hips, as it can affect their texture, but purees can be frozen for longer storage.

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