Dandelion Jelly
Dandelion Jelly offers a unique floral flavor with a hint of sweetness, making it a delightful spread for toast, scones, or biscuits. Its vibrant color and delicate aroma appeal to herbal enthusiasts and those seeking homemade, natural preserves with a subtle, earthy taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the dandelion blossoms in 1 quart of water for about 3 minutes.
- Drain off the blossoms, reserving the liquid.
- Add 3 cups of the dandelion juice to Sure-Jell and lemon or orange extract.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add sugar to the boiling mixture.
- Boil for about 3 minutes.
- Can the hot jelly, seal, and process in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, ensure that the dandelion blossoms are freshly picked and free of any contaminants. If you don't have Sure-Jell, you can use another pectin brand as a substitute. Adjust the sweetness by varying the sugar amount based on your preference; use less for a less sweet jelly. It's helpful to use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the proper temperature for jelling.
Serving Suggestions
Dandelion jelly pairs beautifully with Lettie's French Bread for a delightful breakfast spread. It can also be used as a topping for scones, pancakes, or yogurt. For a unique twist, consider using it in a glaze for roasted meats or drizzled over baked green peppers and onions to enhance their flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of dandelion jelly in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jelly in the refrigerator where it will last for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm a small amount in a microwave or on the stove until it's spreadable. Avoid overheating as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dandelion Jelly contains roughly 365 calories, with 7g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (92% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of flowers for jelly?
Yes, you can experiment with other edible flowers like violets or elderflowers to create unique jellies. Just ensure they're safe for consumption and have a pleasant flavor. Each type of flower will impart its own distinct taste to the jelly, making it a fun way to explore different flavors.
What should I do if my jelly doesn't set?
If your dandelion jelly doesn't set, it may need more pectin or a longer boiling time. You can reprocess the jelly by adding more Sure-Jell and boiling it again. Alternatively, you can use the jelly as a syrup or glaze if it remains runny, which can still be delicious.
Is dandelion jelly safe for children?
Yes, dandelion jelly is generally safe for children, but it's essential to ensure that there are no allergies to dandelions. The jelly is a fun way to introduce kids to unique flavors. Always supervise young children with jelly to prevent choking hazards with spreads.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).