| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 120 | 0g | 0g | 31g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 31g | 0g | 1g | 0g |
When I first stumbled across Jasmine Flower Jelly, I was immediately drawn to the delicate, ethereal presence of jasmine in a simple yet sophisticated dessert. Living in the Rocky Mountains, we often turn to hearty, robust meals that provide sustenance and comfort. However, every now and then, it’s refreshing to introduce a touch of elegance to our rustic table, and this jelly accomplishes just that.
The Magic of Jasmine Flowers
Jasmine has a unique floral aroma that’s both calming and captivating. It’s traditionally known for its relaxing properties, often used in teas and essential oils to promote a sense of tranquility. Integrating jasmine flowers into this jelly not only imparts a delightful fragrance but also ties in the potential benefits of reduced stress and improved mood. The process of steeping dried jasmine flowers in water allows the fragrant oils to infuse, creating a base that’s not only pleasing to the palate but also soothing to the senses.
On those particularly nippy Colorado evenings, I find that a light, refreshing dessert like Jasmine Flower Jelly strikes the perfect balance after a hearty meal. The gentle flavors dance on the tongue and provide a soothing end to the day, whether you’re cozying up by the fire or enjoying the alpine serenity under a blanket of stars.
Perfect Pairings
This jelly is quite versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements rich desserts like creamy panna cotta or even a classic shortcake. If you’re looking to add a refreshing note to a heavy course, consider serving it alongside grilled game meats or a buttery trout fillet. The contrast of flavors enhances the culinary experience, making each bite more intriguing.
Garnishing your Jasmine Flower Jelly with fresh fruit adds a burst of color and additional layers of flavor. Whether you choose tart berries, juicy kiwi, or sweet peaches, the natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit tie everything together beautifully. This makes it not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes.
The inclusion of lemon juice in the recipe provides a subtle tartness that balances the sweetness, while the vanilla extract adds a touch of warmth. The gelatin gives the jelly its signature texture, making it jiggle just enough to be playful yet refined.
If you love exploring the delicate interplay of flavors in your desserts, I highly recommend giving this Jasmine Flower Jelly a try. It’s similar in texture to traditional fruit jellies but brings an aromatic twist that’s sure to delight both you and your guests. Plus, the health benefits and soothing properties of jasmine make it an enticing choice for anyone looking to combine taste with well-being.
In creating this jelly, I found it brought a touch of elegance to the rustic charm of mountain living. Whether you’re in the heart of the Rockies or anywhere else, this dessert offers a harmonious blend of taste, health benefits, and visual appeal, making it a cherished recipe in my collection.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups water
- 3 tablespoons dried jasmine flowers
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons powdered gelatin
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh fruit (such as berries, kiwi, or peaches) for garnish
Method
Step One
In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and add 3 tablespoons of dried jasmine flowers. Allow the flowers to steep for 10 minutes.
Step Two
Strain the jasmine tea to remove the flowers and return the liquid to the pot. Add 2 cups of granulated sugar to the jasmine tea and heat over medium, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step Three
In a small bowl, sprinkle 4 tablespoons of powdered gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
Step Four
After the gelatin has bloomed, add it to the warm jasmine and sugar mixture. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Then, add 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pot, mixing thoroughly.
Step Five
Pour the jelly mixture into a mold or serving dish. Allow it to cool at room temperature for a little while, then transfer it to the refrigerator to set completely. This may take about 4-6 hours or overnight.
Step Six
Once the jelly is set, unmold it carefully if you used a mold or simply slice it if it’s in a serving dish. Garnish with fresh fruit such as berries, kiwi, or peaches before serving.
