Natural Flower Waters

These colorless scented liquids, infused with the essence of orange or rose blossoms, are used throughout the Middle East, from Syria to Morocco. They are made by distilling the petals of damask roses or the blossoms of the Seville orange tree in water until highly fragrant. When added sparingly to sweets or beverages, they impart an elusive background flavor and an alluring aroma, but don’t be tempted to go overboard. Too much of the rose, in particular, can cause food to taste soapy, like drinking perfume!