Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Harvest and prep petals. In the cool of morning, pick bright yellow dandelion heads. Rinse petals gently in cold water to remove tiny visitors and grit. Spread on a towel to drain and pat dry.
- Make the dandelion infusion. Combine petals and 3 cups of water in a medium pot. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let steep for 20 minutes.
- Strain and measure. Pour the infusion through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl, pressing the petals to release every drop. Measure the liquid.
- Prepare jars and lids. Sterilize 6 half-pint jars and lids by boiling them or running them through a hot dishwasher cycle.
Cooking
- Cook the jelly. Pour the dandelion infusion back into the pot. Add lemon juice and powdered pectin, whisking until dissolved. Bring to a full, rolling boil over high heat.
- Boil to set. Once boiling, add sugar all at once and stir vigorously. Boil hard for 1–2 minutes while stirring constantly.
- Jar the jelly. Ladle the hot jelly into prepared jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, apply lids, and screw on bands fingertip-tight.
- Process for safety. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes. Remove jars and let cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours.
- Rest and enjoy. Let the jelly cure for 24 hours before opening to allow flavors to mellow.
Notes
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate opened jars and use within 1 month. Jelly can be frozen for up to 6 months; thaw in the refrigerator before using.
