Sunshine in a Jar Homemade Dandelion Jelly
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever wondered what sunshine tastes like? This dandelion jelly recipe captures it perfectly. It’s a little bit floral, a little bit like honey, and 100% delicious.
Brief Overview
This floral jelly is an old-fashioned treat with deep roots in foraging traditions. While it takes a bit of time, it's surprisingly easy, and will give you about 4-6 jars of golden goodness, it's like sunshine in a jar, ready to make your toast sing!
Main Benefits
One of the best things is that dandelions are packed with vitamins! It's also a really unique addition to any cheese board.
Plus, making this easy jelly recipe is a fantastic way to use those "pesky" weeds taking over your lawn, so make sure it has not been treated with pesticides.
Ready to learn how to make it? Let's gather our ingredients!
What You'll Need for This Magical Jelly
You’re going to need some key bits to make this dandelion jelly . Don’t worry, it’s not all weird wizard ingredients!
- Approximately 4 cups fresh dandelion flower heads
- 4 cups boiling water
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 package powdered pectin (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter (optional)
Essential Equipment
Having the right bits and bobs makes all the difference. Trust me, I've tried doing it the lazy way, it never works!
- Large pot
- Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth
- Sterilized jars and lids
- Candy thermometer (recommended)
- Jar lifter or tongs
- Large spoon
- Ladle
Time Considerations
- Prep Time: 30 minutes steeping time + 8- 12 hours
- Cook Time: 45 minutes - 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes active, 9- 13 hours total.
Ingredients & Equipment for Sunshine in a Jar
Right then, let's gather what we need to make this dandelion jelly recipe . Honestly, it's easier than you think. We're basically making sunshine edible.
You know? The first time I made this I foraged too close to a pavement - don't do that.
Main Ingredients
Here's the kit list for this homemade jelly recipe :
- 4 cups (about 200-250g ) fresh dandelion flower heads, petals only. Get them properly washed.
- 4 cups ( 946 ml ) boiling water.
- 4 tablespoons ( 56.7g ) fresh lemon juice.
- 4 cups ( 800g ) granulated sugar.
- 1 package ( 1.75 oz / 49.6 g ) powdered pectin (optional).
- 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5ml ) unsalted butter (optional).
Quality indicators : For the dandelions, find bright yellow petals from pesticide free areas. The lemon juice? Fresh is best for that lovely zing!
Seasoning Notes
We're keeping it simple. The lemon juice is essential. It balances the sweetness. It also helps the jelly recipe with pectin to set.
If you're feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of ginger can add a kick. But really, edible flowers recipe doesn't need too much messing with.
Its perfect as a natural jelly recipe .
Want a twist? A bit of orange zest adds a citrusy note. You could use lime instead of lemon!
Equipment Needed
Don't worry, you won't need a fancy lab. Here's what you do need.
- Large pot (stainless steel or enamel).
- Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth lined colander.
- Sterilized jars and lids (4-6, 8oz size).
- Candy thermometer (recommended).
- Jar lifter or tongs.
Essential Tools: A good pot and sterilized jars are musts. A thermometer helps for a jelly making tips . But you can do the wrinkle test too.
Remember my first batch? No thermometer! So, this easy jelly recipe can be done.
Household Alternatives: No candy thermometer? Use a chilled plate to test the jelly's set. No jar lifter? Tongs will do in a pinch, just be careful! This really is a great way to experiment with foraging recipes !
Sunshine in a Jar: Homemade Dandelion Jelly Recipe
Fancy a taste of spring? This dandelion jelly recipe is like sunshine bottled up. It's easier than you think to make this amazing floral jelly .
I promise, you’ll love spreading this on your toast. It’s like a honey kissed meadow in a jar! I remeber when I first had dandelion jelly , I thought it was pure magic.
Prep Steps for the Best Dandelion Jelly
Okay, let's get organised, shall we? First, the all-important mise en place. Get your dandelions washed properly . Remove as much green as you can because it will make it bitter.
It's crucial! Then, have your lemon juice measured, sugar at the ready, and jars sterilized. For a time saving tip, wash and prep the dandelions the night before.
You know, like Mary Berry would advise. Safety first: wear oven gloves when handling hot jars. I burnt myself once, and honestly, it wasn't fun.
Dandelion Jelly Recipe : step-by-step
Right, here's how to make this easy jelly recipe foolproof:
- Infuse: Steep thoroughly washed dandelion petals in 4 cups boiling water for 8- 12 hours .
- Strain: Use a fine mesh sieve to get that gorgeous, clear liquid.
- Combine: In a large pot, mix strained infusion, 4 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1 package pectin (optional).
- Boil: Bring to a rolling boil. Don't slack on the stirring.
- Sugar Time: Add 4 cups sugar gradually, stirring like mad.
- Setting Point: Boil until it hits 220° F ( 104° C) or passes the wrinkle test.
- Skim and Remove: Take it off the heat and skim off any foam.
- Jar It: Ladle into sterilized jars and seal.
Pro Tips for Jelly Perfection
Want to take your homemade jelly recipe to the next level? Here are some jelly making tips : First, always pick dandelions from pesticide free areas; a park is better than a roadside.
Secondly, add a knob of butter to reduce foaming; my nan taught me that. And for make-ahead, the dandelion infusion can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, this is great to make into dandelion syrup recipe if you don't use it all.
Avoid overcooking; you'll end up with dandelion toffee recipe , not jelly. My first batch was...interesting.
Recipe Notes: Your Dandelion Jelly Masterclass
So, you're ready to tackle my sunshine in a jar: homemade dandelion jelly recipe ? Ace! Before we get cracking, let's cover a few bits and bobs to ensure your dandelion jelly is a total triumph.
Serving Suggestions: Jelly Joy!
Okay, picture this: a warm, crusty slice of bread. Now, slather it with this beautiful floral jelly . That's the dream, innit?
For a posh afternoon tea vibe, serve it with scones and clotted cream. Feeling fancy? It's banging on a cheese board too, especially with a strong cheddar.
My secret? Brush it on roast chicken for a sticky, sweet glaze. Trust me, it's a game changer.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Once your jars have cooled and you’ve heard that satisfying "pop" confirming they're sealed, stash them in a cool, dark place.
Cupboard under the stairs, anyone? They should last for ages like that, all thanks to good canning recipes .
If you skipped the water bath canning totally fine, no stress! pop the jars in the fridge. They’ll keep for a few weeks in there.
Just keep an eye out for any mold. No one wants moldy jelly.
To reheat, just scoop out what you need. No special instructions here, it’s easy jelly recipe
Variations: Mix it Up, Buttercup!
Fancy a little twist? Zest an orange or lime into the dandelion jelly while it’s simmering. Citrus burst guaranteed. For the more adventurous, throw in a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme.
A savory dandelion flower uses twist, if you will.
If you're watching your sugar intake, you can try using a sugar substitute, but you will need to look up how to replace the sugar content and still get the properties needed for the jelly to set.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Jar
Right, let's get real. This isn't health food. But! It's homemade , and you know exactly what's in it. A small amount of dandelion syrup recipe will give you a little lift with a bit of sunshine and joy!
Think of it as a treat, not a meal replacement, yeah? About 50-60 calories per tablespoon, and mostly sugar. But hey, a little bit of happiness goes a long way.
Okay, there you have it! With these handy notes, your dandelion jelly recipe adventure is bound to be a success.
Don't be scared to have a go, have fun, and make it your own. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is making dandelion jelly recipe really as bonkers as it sounds? Can you actually eat dandelions?
Not bonkers at all, quite the opposite! Dandelions are perfectly edible, and making dandelion jelly recipe is a fantastic way to use those garden "weeds". Think of it as a forager's twist on a classic preserve, a way to reconnect with nature and create something truly special.
Just make sure you only pick dandelions from areas that haven't been treated with pesticides or herbicides, mind you!
My dandelion jelly recipe isn't setting, what am I doing wrong? Is my jelly ruined?
Don't chuck it just yet, it's likely an easy fix! The most common reason for jelly not setting is a lack of pectin. Dandelions naturally contain some pectin, but it can vary. Adding powdered pectin (follow the package instructions for quantities) will usually do the trick.
Also, be sure you're reaching a full rolling boil and cooking it long enough aim for 220°F (104°C) on a candy thermometer, or use the wrinkle test.
How long will my homemade dandelion jelly last, and how should I store it?
If you’ve properly processed your jars in a boiling water bath, your dandelion jelly should be shelf stable for up to a year, stored in a cool, dark place, just like your nan used to do with her jams. Once opened, treat it like any other jam and store it in the refrigerator for a few weeks.
If you didn’t process the jars, refrigerate immediately and use within a month.
I want to jazz up my dandelion jelly recipe a bit any flavour variations you'd recommend?
Absolutely! A little lemon or orange zest can add a lovely citrusy zing that complements the floral notes beautifully. For a more grown-up twist, try adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the dandelion infusion it creates a delightful savory sweet flavour profile that's fantastic with cheese.
Think along the lines of something you would enjoy at afternoon tea!
Can I use frozen dandelions to make dandelion jelly recipe?
While fresh dandelions are ideal for making jelly, frozen dandelions can be used as a substitute, though the flavor might be slightly less intense. Be sure to blanch the dandelions before freezing to preserve their color and flavor.
When ready to use, thaw them completely and drain off any excess water before steeping them in boiling water.
Is dandelion jelly recipe actually good for you? What's the nutritional value?
While dandelion jelly does contain sugar (it's jelly, after all!), it also offers a few nutritional perks. Dandelions are a good source of vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. However, the amounts present in the finished jelly are relatively small per serving.
So, think of it as a treat that brings a bit of sunshine to your day, rather than a major health food. Moderation is key, as Mary Berry would say!
Sunshine In A Jar Homemade Dandelion Jelly
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 50-60 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
