As the summer nears its end, I've been starting to stock up my pantry for the harvest season. While I'll admit that my gardening knowledge is usually lacking, one thing I learned recently is the best roses for rosehips – and since roses are in season until early fall, it got me thinking about what I can make with rosehips for the cozy months ahead.
I've been trying out everything from a DIY pumpkin spice latte recipe to slow cooker ideas for fall batch cooking, but I'm keen to start using more homegrown produce in my recipes, and it turns out that rosehips are surprisingly versatile. (Plus, there's something so bucolic about foraging for the jewel-like hips in late summer.)
While rosehips are a wonderful addition to savory recipes like chutney and even ketchup, I've been using them to level up my drinks and breakfast recipes. If you're looking for some inspiration, here's exactly what to make with rosehips – and it all starts with rosehip syrup.
Rosehip syrup ingredients
- 2lbs rosehips
- 5 1/4 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
Method
- Wash, drain and roughly chop your rosehips.
- Transfer the rosehips to a large pot, add the water, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for around 15 minutes.
- Strain twice using a muslin cloth and a colander to remove as much pulp as possible.
- Transfer the liquid back to your pot, add the sugar, and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved.
- Bring to the boil and cook for around 3 minutes, skimming off any residue on the surface if necessary.
- Decant the finished syrup into sterilized bottles, seal, and use within 4 months.
What to make with rosehip syrup
- Rosehip cocktails: Rosehips pair brilliantly with mojitos or gin and tonics. Finish with a touch of orange blossom water to really elevate your drinks.
- Rosehip and apple cordial: For a delicious non-alcoholic alternative, add a dash of rosehip syrup to your apple juice.
- Rosehip pancakes: Transform your pancakes (and even your porridge) with a generous helping of rosehip syrup and a drizzle of honey.
Shop the essentials
Every forager needs a dependable basket, and this one will do the trick – it's just waiting to be filled with a bounty of rosehips.
If you're looking for the best Dutch oven, our tester recommends Le Creuset – and this handsome pot is 30% off right now.
After learning a few Weck Jar hacks over the summer, I've got plenty in my pantry. They're perfect for batch-prepping syrups, juices and more.
Want to make the most of your roses? Check out our rose care and growing guide – it's been a real lifesaver for me.
