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| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 8 mins – 11 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
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| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 92 | 0.03g | 0g | 23.8g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 23.3g | 0g | 1.3g | 0g |
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When I first came across this Woodruff Jelly recipe, I was immediately intrigued by its unique blend of flavors. Living in the Rocky Mountains, I often draw inspiration from the natural surroundings, and woodruff is a herb that has a distinctive, almost magical aroma that reminds me of the wilderness. The fusion of apple juice and white grape juice in this recipe adds a refreshing sweetness that perfectly complements the slightly grassy, vanilla-like notes of the woodruff. This is a jelly that stands out both in flavor and elegance.
### The Allure of Unique Flavors
One reason I adore this Woodruff Jelly is its unparalleled taste profile. The dried woodruff leaves bring an enchanting aroma that transforms something as simple as jelly into a gourmet treat. Apple juice and white grape juice offer a duo of fruity sweetness, while the hint of lemon juice adds a touch of citrusy brightness. This combination creates a complex yet harmonious flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. The jelly’s texture, balanced with the unflavored gelatin, achieves a consistency that is firm yet melts smoothly in your mouth.
What’s even better is that this jelly pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Spread it on a warm slice of sourdough bread, and you’ll elevate a simple breakfast to an artisanal experience. It also serves as an excellent garnish for desserts like cheesecake, where its light flavors can complement richer foods. The flexibility of the Woodruff Jelly makes it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
### Health Benefits
Adding to its charm are the health perks associated with this recipe. Woodruff has been used traditionally for its medicinal properties, and while this jelly is a treat for your palate, it also offers some health benefits. Woodruff contains coumarin, which has anti-inflammatory and blood-thinning properties. Apple juice and white grape juice are good sources of essential vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to overall wellness. While this jelly does contain sugar, the natural fruit juices help balance the sweetness and offer a nutrient-packed alternative to other sugary spreads.
For those who are looking for a unique and flavorful treat, Woodruff Jelly could easily become a kitchen staple. It’s a sophisticated twist on traditional fruit jellies, much like quince paste or cranberry sauce but with its unique aromatic profile. Garnish it with fresh fruit to add an extra layer of freshness and visual appeal. One bite, and you’ll understand why this jelly is a favorite in my household.
Feel free to explore more about woodruff and its benefits [here](https://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/woodruff-herb.html), and discover additional creative uses for fruit-based jellies in your cooking adventures [here](https://www.bonappetit.com/).
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What You’ll Need
- 1 cup water
- 4 tablespoons dried woodruff leaves
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1 cup white grape juice
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (3 oz) unflavored gelatin
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh fruit for garnish (optional)
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Method
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Step One
In a small pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and add 4 tablespoons of dried woodruff leaves. Cover and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and set the liquid aside. Discard the leaves.
Step Two
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1 cup of apple juice, 1 cup of white grape juice, and 0.5 cup of granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step Three
Sprinkle 1 package (3 oz) of unflavored gelatin over the strained woodruff infusion and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to soften.
Step Four
Add the softened gelatin mixture to the saucepan with the juice and sugar mixture. Stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Remove the saucepan from heat.
Step Five
Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mixture. Pour the mixture into a mold or individual serving dishes.
Step Six
Refrigerate the mold or serving dishes for at least 4 hours, or until the jelly is fully set.
Step Seven
Once set, unmold the jelly or serve directly in the individual dishes. Garnish with fresh fruit if desired.
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