Dandelion Sunshine Jelly
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever wondered what sunshine tastes like? Let's make some dandelion jelly together. Honestly, this floral jelly recipe is like bottling spring.
Brief Overview
This unique homemade jelly recipe comes from a long line of edible flower recipes . It is easy to get lost in the process of foraging for dandelions .
It’s a medium difficulty recipe that will take about 13 hours to make. The recipe yields around 4 x 8oz jars.
Perfect for enjoying now and savoring later!
Main Benefits
One of the greatest benefits of dandelion petal jelly is that it captures the essence of spring. Dandelions are also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
This wildflower jelly is the perfect treat for a sunny morning. It makes a unique gift or a special addition to a picnic.
Ready to turn those pesky weeds into something delicious? Let's talk ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Picking!
Right, so you fancy making some dandelion jelly ? Ace! It's easier than you think. Honestly, the most challenging bit is the foraging for dandelions .
But we'll get to that. First, let’s raid the kitchen.
Main Ingredients: Sunshine in a Jar
- Fresh Dandelion Petals: 4 cups (950ml) , packed. Crucial: Only the yellow petals! And make sure they are clean, clean, clean.
- Boiling Water: 4 cups (950ml) . Tap water, filtered. No need for fancy stuff.
- Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Fresh is best, you know? That bottled stuff just doesn't hit the same.
- Granulated Sugar: 4 cups (800g) . Plain ol’ sugar. Nothing fancy needed here either.
- Powdered Pectin: 1 packet (1.75 oz or 49g) . This is what makes it jelly, jelly, jelly!
Quality indicator? Honestly, for the dandelions, just make sure they are vibrant and free from wee. I mean, you wouldn't want to spread that on your toast!
Seasoning Notes: Subtle Zing!
We aren’t going full-on spice rack here. The dandelion flavor is delicate.
- Essential: The lemon juice. It balances the sweetness. It is vital!
- Enhancers: A tiny pinch of cinnamon? Go wild, you know?
- Substitution: No lemons? Lime juice works. Same amount!
Making your own homemade jelly is fun, right?
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple!
No need to break the bank. Most of this is standard kitchen kit.
- Saucepan: Stainless steel is best. A nice big one.
- Sieve: Fine mesh or cheesecloth. We need to strain out the petals, you see.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring! Don't use metal, it can react.
- Jars & Lids: 4 x 8oz (250ml) . Sterilized, mind you!
- Canning Pot (Optional): If you are canning, but not essential.
- Jar Lifter (Optional): If you are canning, makes life easier.
- Thermometer (Optional): If you are a pro and want to check the setting point.
Household alternative? A large pot does the same thing! Floral jelly recipe at your hand!
Right, let’s get this dandelion jelly recipe moving then! I tell you, the taste of dandelion petal jelly is unreal.
It is one of my favourite spring recipes . Also, is one of my most beloved edible flower recipes .
Foraging is such a British thing, ain't it?
Dandelion Sunshine Jelly: Bottled Spring!
Right then, let's get cooking! Dandelion jelly , eh? Sounds like something straight out of Mrs. Tiggy Winkle’s kitchen, doesn’t it? But trust me, this surprisingly floral and subtly honeyed spread is a proper treat and a great edible flower recipe .
So, if you are foraging for dandelions , then you will be able to make this recipe.
This dandelion jelly recipe really captures spring. It's like sunshine in a jar! Plus, it's a fun way to use all those dandelions popping up in your garden.
I’ve got a homemade jelly recipe that’s easier than you think! Are you ready to dive into it?
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Like a Boss
First, you'll need 4 cups (950ml) of packed, fresh dandelion petals . Yellow ones only, mind! Rinse them properly under cold water.
You don’t want any hidden beasties. Then you'll need 4 cups (950ml) of boiling water , 1/4 cup (60ml) of fresh lemon juice , 4 cups (800g) of granulated sugar , and 1 packet (1.
75 oz or 49g) of powdered pectin .
For time saving, measure everything out before you start. Trust me, it helps! And a heads-up, make sure your jars are properly sterilised. No one wants mouldy wildflower jelly !
step-by-step: From Garden to Jar
Rinse the dandelion petals like a washing machine. Then put them in a bowl and pour 4 cups (950ml) boiling water over them.
Let them steep for at least 12 hours . Stir them every now and again.
Strain the mixture using a fine sieve or cheesecloth, pushing all the liquid out. Discard the dandelion mush.
Put the strained liquid in a big saucepan. Add 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice and 1 packet (1.75 oz or 49g) pectin.
Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring all the time. Then, chuck in 4 cups (800g) sugar, and keep stirring until the sugar is gone.
Boil for 1 minute . The temperature needs to reach 220° F ( 104° C) to set.
Ladle into sterilized jars and let cool! This step may vary depending on whether you are doing the canning process or not.
Pro Tips: Jelly Making Like a Pro
Honestly, the trickiest bit is getting the jelly making tips correct. A common mistake is not boiling it enough. So, aim for 220° F ( 104° C) or use the old "spoon test".
If it wrinkles on a cold plate, you're good to go!
If you want to make it ahead, you can steep the dandelions for up to 24 hours. The key is to get fresh dandelion flowers.
So there you have it! Homemade dandelion petal jelly , perfect for spring picnics and fancy toast. Now go enjoy the taste of sunshine. Happy Cooking!
Right then, you've decided to make some dandelion jelly ! Cracking idea. Now, before you dive headfirst into a field of yellow, let's chat about a few bits and bobs that'll make your homemade jelly experience a smashing success.
Think of these as friendly nudges, not scary rules.
Recipe Notes: Your Dandelion Jelly Bible
This ain't just another dandelion jelly recipe ; it’s your path to sunshine in a jar! We are gonna explore how to get the most out of your floral jelly recipe !
Serving Suggestions: Posh Nosh
Once you've got your beautifully set dandelion petal jelly , what do you do with it?
- Plating and Presentation Ideas: Picture this, you know? A dollop on a warm scone with clotted cream. It's pure British summer vibes. Or, get fancy and use it as a glaze for your Sunday roast chicken. Who knew edible flower recipes could be so versatile?
- Complementary Sides or Beverages: A simple cheese board with crackers? Bang on. And naturally, a pot of tea or glass of chilled elderflower cordial is spot on .
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh
- Refrigeration Guidelines: Once opened, keep your wildflower jelly in the fridge. It should last for a good few weeks, but let's be honest, it won't hang around that long.
- Freezing Options (if applicable): Honestly, I wouldn't recommend freezing this one. The texture might change, and it's just not worth the risk of ruining that beautiful golden colour. Just make a smaller batch, you know?
- Reheating Instructions: Not needed! It's jelly, innit?
Variations: Get Creative!
- Dietary Adaptations: Trying to be healthier? Experiment with honey or agave instead of some of the sugar. But warning, it will change the set.
- Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: When foraging for dandelions isn't an option, you're stuck! Dandelions are very much linked with spring recipes . Maybe next year!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Jar
Each tablespoon comes in at about 50 calories. This is mostly sugar, but hey, it's a treat! The real benefit is the taste of spring , that little bit of sunshine in the middle of winter.
So there you have it! All the extra tips to make your how to make dandelion jelly experience totally awesome.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. And jelly making tips - always sterilize your jars properly!.
Go on, give it a whirl. You might just surprise yourself (and your friends) with this bit of unexpected kitchen magic!
Frequently Asked Questions
Right, so what is dandelion jelly supposed to taste like, then?
Dandelion jelly has a surprisingly delicate, floral flavour. It's subtly sweet, almost like a light honey, with a hint of sunshine. Some people even say it has a slightly grassy note, but in a good way! Think of it as capturing the essence of a spring meadow in a jar much nicer than it sounds, promise.
Crikey, foraging for dandelions sounds a bit risky. How do I know I'm not picking them from somewhere dodgy?
Foraging safety is paramount! Only pick dandelions from areas you know are free from pesticides, herbicides, and, well, let’s just say "animal deposits." Avoid areas near roadsides or industrial sites. Give the petals a thorough wash, like you're prepping them for a royal banquet. If in doubt, leave them out!
I'm a bit of a wally when it comes to preserving. Do I have to can my dandelion jelly, or can I just stick it in the fridge?
If you want to store your dandelion jelly at room temperature for an extended period (like, you know, until next spring), then proper canning is essential. However, if you plan on using it within a few weeks, you can absolutely keep it in the fridge.
Just be sure to use sterilized jars regardless, to prevent mold growth.
Help! My dandelion jelly isn't setting. Is there anything I can do to save it?
A soft set is a common issue. Make sure you used the correct amount of pectin and lemon juice, as these are crucial for setting. You can try re-cooking the jelly with a little extra pectin and lemon juice, bringing it back to a rolling boil, and testing again. If all else fails, don't despair!
You can use it as a delicious syrup for pancakes or ice cream.
Can I experiment with different flavours when making dandelion jelly? Fancy adding some herbs or spices, perhaps?
Absolutely! Dandelion jelly is a surprisingly versatile base for experimentation. Try adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the dandelion infusion for an herbaceous twist, removing it before you boil with the sugar. A pinch of cinnamon or cloves added to the sugar can also give a lovely warm, spiced flavour.
Just remember to go easy on the additions; a little goes a long way!
How does the nutritional value of dandelion jelly stack up? Is it good for me?
Let's be honest, dandelion jelly is more of a treat than a health food, innit? While dandelions themselves have some nutritional benefits, the jelly is primarily sugar. A tablespoon contains roughly 50 calories and 13 grams of sugar.
Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet, perhaps with a spot of wholemeal toast or as a glaze for some proper chicken.
Dandelion Sunshine Jelly
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 50 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
