How to Dry Rose Petals for Tea
Rose petals can make a fragrant, flavorful, and beautiful addition to a variety of teas. However, to get the best flavor, it’s best to use naturally dried rose petals. Here are some steps to help you properly dry your rose petals in order to make a delicious tea.
1. Pick the roses at the right time of day
Roses should be picked in early morning or late afternoon. This is when the petals are most fragrant and flavorful. Make sure to avoid picking them in the middle of the day when the Sun’s rays can damage the petals.
2. Place the roses inside for a few days
Once you have picked the roses, place them in a single layer on a paper towel or piece of newspaper in a dry, dark area of the house. Leave them for a few days until they are completely dry.
3. Store the petals in an airtight container
Once the petals are dry, place them in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place. This will ensure that they will stay fresh and fragrant for an extended period of time.
4. Make tea with the petals
Once you have the dried petals, it’s time to make tea! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Fragrant Rose Petal Tea – steep 1 tablespoon of dried rose petals in hot water until desired tea strength is reached.
- Sweet Rose Petal Ice Tea – combine 1/2 cup of dried rose petals with a quart of black tea and let it sit overnight. Strain and serve over ice.
- Rose Petal-Lemon Tisane – in a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil and add 2-3 teaspoons of rose petals. Simmer for 5-10 minutes and then add the juice of 1 lemon. Let sit for 10 minutes and then strain before serving.
By following these few simple steps, you will be able to enjoy the delicious flavor of rose petal tea in no time!
