In certain cuisines, the petals and hips of the rose are considered an indispensable spice. We’ve used rose hips in a number of our recent recipes, but today we’re turning our focus to the petals.
For most of us, a long-stemmed rose is synonymous with love, romance, Valentine’s Day and matters of the heart. In Western Herbalism the rose (Rosa spp.) is literally used for the heart – both cardiovascular and emotional.
Rose petals are described as having a sweet, mildly bitter and (cooling) astringent flavor. They’re analgesic (pain relieving), antidepressant, cardiac tonic and nervine (calming to the nervous system). They also cool inflammation and help to restore the tone of lax tissue (which is why rose continues to be a popular ingredient in anti-aging skincare!)
This cocktail recipe begins with a rose simple syrup. Simple syrups are aptly named, because they are so easy to make! Infused syrups are great to keep around as quick cocktail mixers – the perfect addition to add a delicious floral flavor to a variety of beverages (try it with lemon juice and sparkling water for a non-alcoholic version!)
For an extra impressive garnish, don’t skip the pretty and aromatic rose sugar blend for rimming the glass! It only takes a few minutes to make, and it really adds to the presentation. ♥
Combine with the bright, happy energy of lemon, and you’ve got a pairing that’s as uplifting as it is delicious. Keep reading to learn how to make an elegant twist on a classic lemon drop martini that’s sure to impress at your next girls’ night! ??
Rose Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients
- Ingredients for Rose Simple Syrup:
- 1-1/2 c granulated sugar
- 1 c boiling water
- 1 c dried rose petals
- Ingredients for Rose Sugar Rim:
- 1/2 c granulated sugar
- 1 T finely crushed dried rose petals
- Ingredients for Rose Lemon Drop Martini:
- 2.5 oz vodka
- 2 T fresh squeezed lemon juice (approx. 1 large lemon)
- 3/4 oz rose simple syrup
- Ice
Instructions
- Simple Syrup:
- Combine Rose petals and water in a small saucepan, cover and steep over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, or until roses lose their color
- Strain, and rinse pot
- Return rose infusion to the pot, and stir in sugar
- Simmer over medium heat until sugar is dissolved, then simmer another 3-5 minutes
- Store in clean jar in the refrigerator; use within 30 days
- Rose Sugar Rim:
- Rub the rose petals and sugar together until the sugar is evenly colored and a pretty pink
- Rose Lemon Drop Martini:
- Run a lemon wedge along the rim of your glass, then dip glass into the rose sugar
- Combine all the martini ingredients in a cocktail shaker, and pour into glass
