Springtime dandelions shine with lemon and honey. Zesty, sweet, and perfect for spreading or topping.
# Components:
→ Foraged Blossoms
01 - 4 cups (about 200–250 g) fresh dandelion petals, green parts removed
→ Liquids
02 - 4 cups (1 quart) water
03 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
→ Sweeteners
04 - 2 cups (1 pint) granulated sugar
05 - 1 cup (8 fluid ounces) mild honey
→ Setting Agents
06 - 1 packet (1.75 ounces / 50 grams) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell or equivalent)
# Method:
01 - Select only the yellow segments of fresh dandelion petals, discarding green sepals and stems to prevent bitterness.
02 - Combine dandelion petals and water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes.
03 - Remove from heat, cover, and steep the mixture for at least 6 hours or overnight to maximize floral extraction.
04 - Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, pressing gently to extract all liquid. Discard petal solids.
05 - Measure out 3 cups (720 milliliters) of dandelion infusion; supplement with additional water if necessary to reach this volume.
06 - Transfer liquid to a clean saucepan. Add lemon juice and fruit pectin, then bring to a boil over high heat, stirring continuously.
07 - Add sugar and honey. Stir thoroughly, return to a rolling boil, and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and passes the jelly test.
08 - Remove from heat and skim foam from surface. Ladle hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims, secure lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
09 - Allow jars to cool undisturbed. Verify seals before storing in a cool, dark environment.