When it comes to ingredients that are both beautiful and packed with health benefits, rose hips take the crown. If you've ever admired the bright red or orange berries that appear on wild rose bushes after the blooms have faded, you’ve encountered this versatile fruit. But did you know that rose hips are not just lovely to look at—they're also a superfood in disguise? From boosting immunity to adding a delicate, tangy flavour to dishes, rose hips have much to offer.

What Are Rosehips?

Rosehips are the fruit of the wild rose (Rosa canina). These small, round fruits are usually red or orange, and they form just below the flower petals. They’re a common sight in hedgerows, and here in Salters HQ, during the late summer and autumn months. Not only are they an important food source for wildlife, but they’ve also been harvested for centuries for their medicinal and culinary uses.

Fun Facts About Rose Hips

High in Vitamin C: Rose hips are known for their incredibly high vitamin C content. In fact, during World War II, when citrus fruits were scarce, people in the UK would gather rose hips to make syrup, helping to prevent scurvy.

Natural Beauty Boost: Rich in antioxidants, rose hips are great for your skin. Many skincare products use rose hip oil to hydrate and rejuvenate, as it helps to combat signs of ageing.

A Bit of Folklore: In ancient times, it was believed that rose hips could protect people from evil spirits. They were often used in spells and charms for good luck!

Wild Harvesting: While you can grow your own rose hips, many foragers still collect them in the wild. Just make sure to pick them away from roadsides to avoid pollution.

Traditional Medicine: Rosehips have been used in herbal remedies to treat everything from colds and flu to digestive problems. They’re also thought to reduce inflammation and support joint health.

Rosehip Syrup Recipe

Rosehip syrup is a traditional recipe that has stood the test of time. It’s not only packed with immune-boosting vitamin C but also adds a lovely flavour to drinks, desserts, and even cocktails. You can drizzle it over pancakes or ice cream, or mix it into a glass of prosecco for a wedding-day twist!

Ingredients:

1kg fresh rosehips (preferably wild foraged or organic)

1 litre of water

500g sugar

Method:

Prepare the rosehips: Remove any stems or leaves from the rosehips and give them a good wash. It’s best to freeze them for 24 hours before making the syrup, as this breaks down the skins and makes the process easier.

Boil the rosehips: In a large saucepan, bring the litre of water to a boil. Roughly chop the rosehips (or blitz them in a food processor) and add them to the boiling water. Let them simmer for around 20 minutes until they soften.

Strain the mixture: Using a muslin cloth or fine sieve, strain the liquid into a clean bowl or jug, squeezing as much liquid from the pulp as possible. You can repeat this process if you want a clearer syrup.

Add the sugar: Pour the strained liquid back into the pan and add the sugar. Stir over a low heat until the sugar has dissolved completely. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil and allow it to simmer for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly.

Bottle the syrup: Pour the hot syrup into sterilised bottles or jars and seal tightly. The syrup should last for several months if stored in a cool, dark place.

Serving Ideas:

Drizzle over desserts like panna cotta or pavlova

Add a splash to sparkling water or prosecco

Use as a glaze for roast meats, particularly game or poultry

Why We Love Rose Hips

As a wedding and event caterer, rosehips offer a unique ingredient that can add both flavour and visual appeal to menus. Their natural sweetness and tang make them perfect for cocktails, desserts, and even savoury dishes. Not to mention, incorporating rosehips into our offerings can give your event a touch of nature-inspired elegance. Whether you're serving up seasonal canapés or crafting signature wedding cocktails, rosehip syrup can add a memorable twist to any occasion.

Next time you spot those little red berries on a country walk, consider picking a few (responsibly, of course) and transforming them into something magical for your next event. Rosehips truly are a gift from nature, just waiting to be discovered!