#RoseDay: Rose-infused tea, macarons: Delights for your loved ones

Roses aren’t just for bouquets-they also make for a delicate and versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Their mild sweetness and floral notes can work in both sweet and savoury dishes, adding an interesting dimension to familiar recipes. From creamy desserts to refreshing drinks and even main courses, roses bring a subtle yet distinct touch to food, making them a perfect addition to your Rose Day menu.

Chef Niriksha Reddy, Sous Chef at ITC Grand Central, Mumbai, shares, “When cooking with roses, always use organic, edible varieties free from pesticides. Start with a small amount of rose water, as its aroma is potent, and pair it with ingredients that balance sweetness with acidity or richness. For a beautiful garnish, add rose petals just before serving.”

Chef Bhaskar Chakraborty, Executive Pastry Chef, JW Marriott Kolkata, adds, “The lychee rose panna cotta is a refreshing, light dessert with a delightful interplay of textures. To perfect the balance, ensure excess juice is drained from the lychees before incorporating them into the base.”

How to cook with roses:

Choose edible roses – Not all roses are safe to eat. Use organically grown, pesticide-free varieties.

Trim the base – The white part at the base of petals can be bitter. Remove it for a smoother taste.

Infuse for subtlety – Steep petals in warm liquids like cream, milk, or syrup instead of adding them directly.

Use natural rose water – Artificial rose flavouring can taste soapy. Opt for natural rose water or homemade infusions.

Balance flavours – Rose pairs beautifully with saffron, cardamom, honey, citrus, vanilla (for desserts) and herbs like thyme or basil (for savoury dishes).

Garnish wisely – Fresh or crystallised rose petals make lovely toppings for desserts, drinks and even savoury dishes.

- Inputs by chef Aashutosh Shende and chef Vinamr Manocha

Delicious ways to use rose:

Savoury delights– Rose petal risotto with saffron & almonds, rose-flavoured cheese crostini.


Creamy indulgences– Chilled rose & lychee panna cotta, rose-infused chocolate mousse.

Sweet treats-Rose petal jam for toast, cakes & pastries.

Fresh & floral–Rose petal salad with feta & vinaigrette.

Refreshing sips–Rose-infused lemonade & soothing rose petal tea.

- Inputs by Gopinath Vyraperumal, Assistant Food and Beverage Manager at Courtyard By Marriott Goa Colva.