To bottle rose water, you need to first make it by simmering rose petals in distilled water, then preserve it and finally store it in a suitable container. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Steps to Bottling Rose Water
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Prepare the Rose Water:
- Start with 2 cups of distilled water and clean petals from approximately 2 roses.
- Combine the water and petals in a pot.
- Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the rose petals have lost their color. The water should have a noticeable rose tint.
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Preserve the Rose Water:
- Add 1 teaspoon of vodka (or a similar preservative like rose water preservative from online or a local store) to the rose water mixture. This will help extend its shelf life. This step is important to prevent bacterial growth.
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Cool and Strain:
- Allow the rose water to cool completely.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining rose petals.
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Bottle the Rose Water:
- Pour the strained rose water into a clean, sterilized bottle or container. Dark glass bottles are ideal to protect the rose water from light, which can degrade its quality.
- Ensure the bottle is properly sealed to prevent contamination.
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Refrigerate:
- Store the bottled rose water in the refrigerator to further preserve it and maintain its freshness. Properly refrigerated, homemade rose water can last for several weeks to a few months.
By following these steps, you can successfully bottle and store your homemade rose water for various uses, such as skincare, aromatherapy, or culinary applications.
