Concentrated Homemade Rose Water
Chef Noor turns her stovetop into a tiny distillery: damask rose buds simmer around an empty bowl, an upturned lid full of ice condenses the fragrant steam, and drop by drop you collect pure, concentrated rose water for your desserts and drinks.
Concentrated rose water can be made at home with a simple distillation method: dried Damask roses are placed in a pot with water, and the fragrant condensing steam is collected under an ice-chilled lid into a small bowl. The result is pure rose water with no additives, perfect for sweets, drinks and scenting dishes.
How to Prepare
Scatter the rose buds in a wide pot and pour in the two cups of water.
Place an empty heat-proof bowl in the centre of the pot — the roses and water should surround it, not fill it.
Cover the pot with its lid turned upside down, and pile ice cubes on top.
Simmer on low heat: the fragrant steam hits the cold lid, condenses, and drips into the bowl.
Replace the ice as it melts, and keep going for about 45 minutes.
Carefully lift out the bowl — the liquid inside is your concentrated rose water. Funnel it into a clean bottle and store in the fridge.
Keep the heat low and the lid icy — a gentle simmer gives a clearer, more fragrant distillate than a rolling boil.
Ingredient Swaps
Fresh Damask rose petals can be used instead of dried, increasing the amount slightly since fresh petals are less concentrated. If ice cubes are unavailable to chill the lid, a cold compress or iced water on top works to condense the steam. A wide pot is preferable so the roses spread out evenly.
Common Questions
Why is ice placed on top of the lid?
The cold condenses the fragrant steam into droplets of rose water that collect in the bowl.
How long does the distillation take?
About forty-five minutes over low heat, refreshing the ice whenever it melts.
Why is the lid inverted during distillation?
An inverted lid directs the condensing droplets toward the centre of the pot so they fall into the bowl rather than the sides.
How do I store the rose water?
Bottle it in a clean container and keep it in the fridge to preserve its flavour and scent.
Can any type of rose be used?
Edible, pesticide-free Damask roses are best, as they are the most suitable for cooking.
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