TheHerbProf.com is a treasure trove of knowledge for those interested in natural healing and herbal remedies. The website is run by Paul Johnston MD. A naturopathic who has not only received extensive education in the field but also has personal experience in self-healing.
Herb jelly serves as a tasty and adaptable accompaniment, which can be crafted using an array of herbs and tastes. It’s an excellent method to encapsulate the essence of summer and introduce an exclusive flair to your preferred meals. I’ve consistently enjoyed herbal jellies and take pleasure in testing various herb and flavor mixtures.
Making herb jelly is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment. The basic recipe involves simmering fresh herbs in a liquid, such as apple juice or wine, and then straining the mixture to remove any solids. The resulting liquid is then combined with sugar and pectin and cooked until it thickens into a jelly-like consistency. The jelly can be stored in jars and used as a condiment for meats, cheeses, and breads, or as a glaze for roasted vegetables or meats.
What is Herb Jelly?
Definition
Herb jelly is a type of jelly made from fresh or dried herbs. It is a unique and flavorful way to preserve herbs and enjoy them long after the growing season has ended. this recipe is typically made by steeping herbs in boiling water and then adding sugar and pectin to create a thick, spreadable jelly.
Popular Uses
this recipe can be used in a variety of ways, both sweet and savory. It can be spread on toast or biscuits, used as a glaze for meats, or added to cheese boards for a burst of flavor. Some popular herb jellies include rosemary jelly, mint jelly, and basil jelly.
Regional Variations
Herb jelly is a popular condiment in many regions around the world. In the United States, it is often served with roasted meats or as a topping for cream cheese and crackers. Now, in Europe, herb jellies are commonly served with cheese plates or as a spread for bread. In Asia, grass jelly is a popular dessert made from a member of the mint family and is commonly consumed in East and Southeast Asian countries such as China, Taiwan, and Thailand [1].
Herb jelly can be made with a variety of herbs, and the flavor can be customized to suit individual tastes. Some popular herb combinations include thyme and lemon, lavender and honey, and sage and apple. The amount of sugar used can also be adjusted to make the jelly sweeter or less sweet, depending on personal preference.
Overall, this recipe is a unique and flavorful way to enjoy fresh herbs long after the growing season has ended. With its versatility and customizable flavor, it is no wonder that herb jelly has become a popular condiment in many regions around the world.
How to Make Herb Jelly
Herb jelly is a delicious and unique way to use fresh herbs from your garden. It can be made in both sweet and savory variations, and is a great way to add flavor to your dishes. In this section, I will guide you through the process of making this recipe, including the basic recipe, variations for savory or sweet jelly, and ideas for using herb jelly.
Basic Recipe
To make this recipe, you will need fresh herbs, water, sugar, lemon juice, and liquid fruit pectin. Here is a step-by-step guide to making herb jelly:
- Sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes. Keep the jars and lids in the hot water until ready to use.
- In a large saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 2 cups of chopped fresh herbs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth-lined sieve, pressing on the herbs to extract as much liquid as possible. Measure the liquid and add enough water to make 4 cups.
- Return the liquid to the saucepan and add 6 cups of sugar and 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Add 1 pouch of liquid fruit pectin and boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Skim off any foam from the surface of the jelly.
- Ladle the hot jelly into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids on top.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a wire rack.
Variations for Savory or Sweet Jelly
This recipe can be made in both sweet and savory variations, depending on your taste preferences. Here are some ideas for making savory or sweet herb jelly:
- Savory: Use herbs like basil, thyme, rosemary, sage, or garlic to make a savory herb jelly. Add a splash of white wine vinegar for acidity and flavor.
- Sweet: Use herbs like lavender, lemon verbena, or pineapple sage to make a sweet herb jelly. Add a few drops of food coloring to enhance the color.
Ideas for Using Herb Jelly
Herb jelly can be used in a variety of ways, from appetizers to desserts. Here are some ideas for using this recipe:
- Appetizers: Serve herb jelly with crackers and cheese for a unique appetizer.
- Main dishes: Use this recipe as a glaze for roasted meats or as a sauce for grilled vegetables.
- Desserts: Use this recipe as a topping for ice cream or as a filling for cakes and pastries.
In total, the preparation and cook time for this recipe is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the total time including processing and cooling is about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Store the end result in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Health Benefits of Herb Jelly
As a lover of herb jelly, I am always excited to learn more about its potential health benefits. Here are some of the key nutritional and medicinal properties of this delicious spread:
Nutritional Value
Herb jelly is a great source of vitamins and minerals, especially if you make it at home using fresh herbs. For example, basil is a good source of vitamin K, iron, and calcium, while rosemary contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. By incorporating herb jelly into your diet, you can add flavor and nutrition to a variety of dishes.
Potential Medicinal Properties
In addition to its nutritional value, herb jelly may also have some medicinal properties. For example, some studies have suggested that rosemary may improve memory and concentration, while basil may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of these herbs and their extracts.
Incorporating Herb Jelly in a Healthy Diet
If you want to incorporate herb jelly into a healthy diet, there are many ways to do so. For example, you can spread it on whole grain toast or crackers, use it as a marinade for chicken or fish, or mix it into a salad dressing. Just be sure to choose a recipe that uses natural sweeteners and avoid consuming too much added sugar.
Overall, while herb jelly is not a miracle food, it can be a tasty and nutritious addition to a healthy diet. By experimenting with different herbs and flavor combinations, you can create a spread that meets your nutritional needs and tastes great.
Before You Go – Herb Jelly
Herb jelly is a versatile and delicious condiment that can be made using a variety of herbs. Whether you prefer sweet or savory flavors, there is a recipe out there for you.
When making this recipe, it is important to use fresh or dried herbs and follow the recipe closely to ensure the jelly sets properly. Using a pectin such as Sure-Jell can also help with the setting process.
Herb jelly can be used in a variety of ways, from spreading on toast to glazing meats and vegetables. It can also make a great gift for friends and family, especially when presented in a decorative jar with a label that lists the ingredients and date of creation.
Overall, making this recipe is a fun and rewarding way to experiment with different herbs and flavors in the kitchen. So why not give it a try and see what delicious combinations you can come up with?
Herb Jelly
Herb Jelly is like a little jar of sunshine in your pantry. It’s sweet, aromatic, and can add a gourmet touch to any dish.
That’s where theherbprof.com comes in. It’s like your personal cookbook, offering a wealth of information on how to create the perfect herb jelly.
Herbs like mint, rosemary, and thyme are the stars of the show. They add depth and complexity to the jelly. It’s like having a garden in your dish!
Sugar and pectin are the base of your jelly. They provide the sweetness and the perfect jelly-like texture. It’s like the canvas for your culinary masterpiece!
And let’s not forget about the cooking process. Slowly simmering the herbs in the sugar mixture helps to extract their flavors. It’s like a gentle dance between the sugar and the herbs!
So, why not give this recipe a try? It’s rewarding, fun to make, and a great way to support theherbprof.com. It’s a win-win!
Remember, herb jelly and theherbprof.com are a match made in culinary heaven. They complement each other perfectly, like a well-dressed salad on a sunny day. So, don’t wait! Start your culinary journey today. Your taste buds will thank you!
References – Herb Jelly
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
Check the Following Articles!
Lemon Herb Tahini: A Delicious and Nutritious Dip
Dill Dressing Recipes: Delicious Options for Salads
Herb Infused Oil: A Simple Guide to Making and Using It
Frequently Asked Questions – Herb Jelly
What are some savory herb jelly recipes?
Savory herb jelly recipes can be made with a variety of herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, sage, and basil. One recipe involves making a tea with fresh or dried herbs, straining it, and adding sugar and pectin to create a jelly. Another recipe involves simmering herbs in vinegar and water, straining the mixture, and adding sugar and pectin. This recipe can be served with cheese, crackers, or meat dishes.
How can you incorporate herb jelly into your cooking?
Herb jelly can be used as a spread on toast, bagels, or biscuits. It can also be used as a glaze for meat dishes, such as chicken or pork. Additionally, herb jelly can be added to marinades, salad dressings, and dips to add flavor.
What are the benefits of Chinese herbal jelly?
Chinese herbal jelly, also known as guilinggao, is a jelly-like dessert made from turtle shell, Chinese mesona, and other herbs. It is believed to have cooling properties and is often consumed during hot weather. Some people also believe that it can improve skin health, aid digestion, and boost the immune system.
What is the difference between herbal jelly and grass jelly?
Herbal jelly is typically made from herbs, sugar, and pectin to create a sweet or savory jelly. Grass jelly, on the other hand, is made from the leaves of the Chinese mesona plant and is often served as a dessert or drink in Asian cuisine. Grass jelly has a slightly bitter taste and a gelatinous texture.
Can herb jelly be used as a marinade?
Herb jelly can be used as a marinade for meat, poultry, or fish dishes. The jelly can be mixed with other ingredients, such as soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, to create a flavorful marinade. The meat can be marinated for several hours before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
What are some common herbs used in herb jelly?
Common herbs used in herb jelly include rosemary, thyme, sage, basil, and mint. These herbs can be used alone or in combination to create a variety of flavors. Other herbs, such as lavender, lemon balm, and chamomile, can also be used to create unique and flavorful herb jellies.
