fry red fruits with osmanthus flowers

How to Make Sweet Osmanthus and Hawthorn Salad

Sweet osmanthus and hawthorn salad, a beloved Chinese autumn treat, combines the floral fragrance of osmanthus with the tartness of hawthorn. Here’s a simple guide to making this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

- 500g fresh hawthorns (or 300g dried ones), pitted and cored

- 100g rock sugar (adjust to taste)

- 1 tablespoon dried sweet osmanthus

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

- Water (as needed)

Steps:

1. Prepare Hawthorns: If using fresh hawthorns, wash and remove cores/ pits. For dried ones, soak until soft, then simmer in water for 15 minutes until tender. Drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of the cooking liquid.

2. Cook Hawthorns: Return hawthorns to the pot with reserved liquid, rock sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Simmer over low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens and the hawthorns soften.

3. Add Osmanthus: Stir in dried sweet osmanthus and lemon juice (if using). Cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool completely. The osmanthus infuses the hawthorns with its sweet aroma as it cools.

4. Serve: Transfer to a sterilized jar and refrigerate. Enjoy chilled as a dessert or snack, or spoon over yogurt for a tangy-sweet twist.

This vibrant, jewel-toned dish not only delights the palate but also captures the essence of autumn—perfect for sharing with loved ones!