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How to Dry Rosehips

Apr 27, 2011 | By Melynda Sorrels

From food source to medicine, rose hips have fulfilled multiple purposes throughout the years. Boasting a semi-sweet flavor, rose hips are often made into teas , syrups and jams, as well as being cut up to go into salads. Full of vitamins, minerals and calcium, rose hips not only provide a burst of flavor, but make a healthy addition to your diet.

Step 1

Wash the rose hips under cool running water and discard any that are damaged or bruised. Pat the freshly washed rose hips dry with paper towels.

Step 2

Slice off the ends before slicing them down the center to split them open.

Step 3

Scrape out the seeds in the center with a knife and discard them.

Step 4

Place the rose hips on a non aluminum baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 5

Bake the rose hips in the oven at 140 degrees Fahrenheit for two to three hours to dry them out thoroughly. They will begin to shrivel and become crisp and brittle. Rose hips can also be dried outside in the sunshine by placing them onto a wire rack lined with cheesecloth to keep them from falling through. Cover them with a fine netting to keep bugs out and allow them to dry for 24 to 48 hours outside, checking on them periodically. The skins will be tough and no moisture will come out when they are squeezed.

Step 6

Place the rose hips in an airtight container and mark the date on it with a marker and store them in a cool dry place.

Tips and Warnings

  • Rose hips can also be dried using a dehydrator. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific model of dehydrator.
  • Using aluminum pans or utensils can decrease their vitamin C and should be avoided.

Things You'll Need

  • Paper towels
  • Knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Cheesecloth
  • Fine netting
  • Airtight container
  • Marker

References

Article reviewed by ces Last updated on: Apr 27, 2011

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