The dog rose rose hips are not only edible but very tasty, even if a bit tart. If you harvested until after the first frost, then the fruits will be a little sweeter but also a little softer.
What can you do with dog rose hips?
The dog rose rose hips are edible, tasty and rich in vitamin C, lycopene, fiber and minerals. They can be used as fruit puree, jam, soup, liqueur or in sauces. Harvesting occurs when the rose hips are fully ripe and can be easily separated from the stem.
What ingredients do rose hips have?
In addition to a large amount of vitamin C, rose hips also contain a lot of lycopene. The red plant pigment is mainly known from tomatoes and is one of the effective antioxidants. Some other vitamins, fiber and valuable minerals such as magnesium, calcium and potassium, tannins and pectins can also be found in the rose hips.
This makes them a popular home remedy for colds, strengthening the immune system and stimulating the appetite. Rose hips are even said to provide relief for urinary tract problems. It also promotes wound healing in the case of small injuries in the mouth, bleeding gums or periodontal disease. Self-treatment is not recommended without medical advice.
How can I use the rose hips?
The fruits of the dog rose and also the apple rose can be used in many different ways. You can use the rose hips to make a raw fruit puree for immediate consumption, make jam or a soup, or even make a liqueur. Rose hips are also often used for tea, especially when dried. Cook a rosehip chutney or season the sauce of your roast venison with the sour rosehips.
When and how do I harvest the rose hips?
Don't harvest the rose hips until they are fully ripe. You will notice this because they can be easily removed from the stem. The first frosts cause the rose hips to become sweeter. If the birds haven't pecked away your dog roses by then, don't harvest until after the first frost. Why not cut some branches with ripe rose hips as an autumnal decoration.
The most important thing about rose hips:
- high content of vitamin C
- also contains minerals and pectin
- rich in fiber
- Fruit puree without cooking is particularly rich in vitamins
- sweet or savory: jam or chutney
- with alcohol: prepare wine or liqueur
- for seasoning: delicious in game sauces
Tip
Because of its high vitamin C content, the rose hip is also nicknamed the “lemon of the north”. Fresh raw fruit puree contains a particularly high amount of this vitamin.
