| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 290 | 0.1g | 0g | 75g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 74g | 0.3g | 0.1g | 0g |
When I first stumbled upon the idea for this Homemade Sweet Woodruff Jelly, I was intrigued by its charm and traditional appeal. The sweet woodruff herb is a delightful addition that infuses the jelly with a unique and subtle flavor, reminiscent of earth and freshly mown hay. As a Louisiana native with a passion for Creole richness and French elegance, I often seek to blend these influences in my recipes, and this one hit the mark perfectly.
A Touch of Elegance and Health
Sweet woodruff is not only a beautiful and fragrant herb but also one with numerous health benefits. Traditionally, it has been used in herbal medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues and insomnia. Combined with the antioxidant-rich apple and lemon juice, this jelly offers a burst of flavor that’s both delicious and potentially beneficial for your well-being.
Furthermore, the natural pectin found in apple juice plays a crucial role in the jelling process, meaning we don’t have to rely on synthetic additives. For those who are more health-conscious, this is a significant advantage. Eliminating unnecessary additives makes this Homemade Sweet Woodruff Jelly not just a delight for your taste buds but kinder to your body as well.
Versatility in Your Culinary Repertoire
One of the aspects I adore about this jelly is its versatility. It pairs exquisitely with both sweet and savory dishes. Spread it over a warm, buttery croissant for breakfast, or serve it as a unique accompaniment to a cheese platter when entertaining guests. It also works as an excellent glaze for meats, adding a nuanced flavor to pork or chicken dishes. If you enjoy experimenting, consider incorporating it into your desserts; it’s wonderful drizzled over vanilla ice cream or layered between sponge cakes.
This recipe brings to mind other delectable jellies and jams, such as the classic apricot preserves or exotic elderberry jelly. Similar to those, the sweet woodruff jelly offers a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart and makes it a cherished addition to any gourmet pantry.
In summary, this Homemade Sweet Woodruff Jelly not only highlights the fragrant sweetness of the Woodruff herb but also serves as a versatile and health-conscious option for any food lover. Its applications are endless, making it an essential recipe for anyone looking to diversify their culinary creations.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup fresh sweet woodruff leaves
- 4 cups apple juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
- 1/2 tsp butter (optional, to reduce foam)
Method
Step One
Rinse the fresh sweet woodruff leaves thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Step Two
In a large pot, combine the apple juice and sweet woodruff leaves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the woodruff leaves to infuse into the apple juice.
Step Three
Remove the pot from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot or bowl. Discard the sweet woodruff leaves.
Step Four
Add the lemon juice and fruit pectin to the strained apple juice mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step Five
Place the pot back on the stove over high heat. Stirring constantly, bring the mixture to a vigorous boil that cannot be stirred down.
Step Six
Once the mixture is boiling rapidly, add the granulated sugar all at once. Stir continuously to dissolve the sugar, bringing the mixture back to a full rolling boil.
Step Seven
Let it boil hard for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. If desired, add 1/2 teaspoon of butter to reduce foam. Use a spoon to skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
Step Eight
Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, apply lids, and screw on bands until fingertip-tight.
Step Nine
Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude as necessary. Remove jars and let them cool completely. Check for seals and store in a cool, dark place. Enjoy your Homemade Sweet Woodruff Jelly!
