Roses are the symbol of the alchemy of the self, and are the pure expression of grace and love (see previous blog). They are also delectable as a tea or essence. Here below are two recipes, easy to make and impressive to taste. Both recipes have cooling properties as Pitta Dosha*-Pacifier.
ROSE PETAL SPREAD
Also known as Gulkand, rose petal spread has cooling properties and is therefore beneficial in alleviating heat and inflammation related problems. It is a powerful antioxidant and a very good rejuvenatour, as well as producing a calming effect for the nervous system, balancing the emotions.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of fragrant rose petals, gently rinsed in pure, non-chlorinated water and drained.
- 2 Tablespoons organic sugar powder.
- 2 Tablespoons raw organic honey.
- 1 cardamom pod, crushed and contents ground in a mortar and pestle.
- drop of rose water (optional but preferable).
- a very tiny dash of cinnamon( optional).
Preparation:
In a glass bowl, mix all ingredients together and massage the petals gently with your hands. Cover and allow to sit in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, simmer for 30 minutes, then jar and refrigerate. To make the texture thicker like jam, increase the sugar to 1/2 cup and add 1/4 cup water.
AYURVEDIC ROSE-COCONUT SALAD DRESSING
This recipe has been used in India, Middle East and Asia for millennia to flavour foods such as rice dishes, puddings and sweets. It is also used in French glazes, pastries and puddings. Coconut adds to its cooling properties.
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup fresh organic yogurt
- 2 tablespoons organic extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Organic Rose Petal Spread
- 1 teaspoon organic dried, shredded coconut
Stir all ingredients together.
*In Ayurvedic medicine, the doshas derive from the Five Elements and their related properties. Vata is composed of Space and Air, Pitta of Fire and Water, and Kapha of Earth and Water. The doshas are biological energies found throughout the human body and mind. They govern all physical and mental processes and provide every living being with an individual blueprint for health and fulfillment. “The three bioelements are always fluctuating in the body. They are highly unstable and changes with day and night, and with food. The central concept of Ayurvedic medicine is the theory that health exists when there is a balance between three fundamental bodily bio-elements or doshas called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. (Ref: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dosha)”.
“And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: it is only with the heart that one can see rightly,what is essential is invisible to the eye”
~ Antoine de Saint-Exupery