On the vast land of the Iranian Plateau, the history of rose cultivation is like a brilliant long river, stretching for thousands of years. In spring, places like Kashan and Shiraz are covered with layers of rose gardens that resemble pink clouds. When the gentle breeze blows, the rich fragrance of roses mingles with the sweetness of morning dew, filling every inch of the air. Generations of Iranians have tilled the land in this ocean of roses. Through countless personal practices and bold attempts during their long-term companionship with roses, they have unlocked the amazing diverse uses of roses, deeply integrating them into all aspects of life.
In the Iranian kitchen, roses are well-deserved "flavor magicians." According to legend, at an ancient Persian royal banquet, chefs accidentally sprinkled fresh rose petals into a stewed lamb dish. The original rich meaty aroma 奇妙地 (wonderfully) blended with the sweet fragrance of roses, creating a unique flavor that lingered in the mouth. Since then, roses have held an important place in Iranian cuisine. Today, rose tea is an essential beverage on Iranian family tables. In the morning, housewives put dried rose petals and tender green tea leaves into a copper teapot. The moment boiling water is poured in, the petals stretch in the water, releasing a charming aroma. A sip brings a burst of sweetness and fragrance on the tongue, injecting vitality into the new day. Rose pastries are another sweet highlight in Iranians' lives. Pastry chefs carefully mix rose jam with nuts and honey, wrapping the mixture in crispy pastry to bake rose mille-feuille and rose-filled cookies. Every bite is filled with a rich rose aroma, making them irresistible. During important festivals such as weddings and the New Year, these rose-infused delicacies carry people's blessings and expectations for a better life.
In the daily skincare routine, rose water is known as the "secret to beauty" for Iranian women. In the morning markets, vendors sell crystal-clear rose water in exquisite glass bottles, and the rich fragrance attracts passersby to stop. When cleansing their faces, Iranian women gently wipe their skin with cotton pads soaked in rose water. While the rose water mildly removes dirt, it also penetrates natural moisturizing factors into every pore. On dry afternoons, they pour rose water into small spray bottles to replenish their skin with moisture anytime, anywhere, soothing discomfort caused by dryness and sunlight. With long-term use, the skin becomes as delicate, smooth, and hydrated as rose petals. In traditional Iranian medicine, rose water is also believed to have a calming effect. A few drops of rose water on the pillow before bed, with its elegant fragrance lingering around, helps people relax and enjoy a good night's sleep.
