wawstockDandelion honey is a delightful and unique alternative to traditional honey, with a subtle floral flavor. Here’s a simple recipe to make dandelion honey at home:
Ingredients:
4 cups fresh dandelion flowers (make sure they are pesticide-free, preferably picked from an area away from roadsides or polluted areas)
4 cups water
1 lemon (optional, for added flavor)
4 cups granulated sugar
Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
Sterilized glass jars with lids for storing
Instructions:
Preparation: Gently rinse the dandelion flowers under cold water to remove any dirt or insects. Trim the green base from each flower, as it can impart a bitter taste.
Infusion: Place the cleaned dandelion flowers in a large pot. Pour the water over them, ensuring they are fully submerged. If desired, cut the lemon into slices and add them to the pot for extra flavor.
Boiling: Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors of the dandelion flowers to infuse into the water.
Straining: After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Place a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer over a clean bowl or another pot. Carefully pour the liquid through the strainer to separate the dandelion petals from the liquid. Use a spoon to press down on the petals to extract as much liquid as possible.
Sweetening: Return the strained liquid to the pot and place it back on the stove over low heat. Gradually stir in the granulated sugar until it is completely dissolved. Continue to simmer the mixture for another 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
Cooling and Storing: Once the dandelion honey has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Pour the honey into sterilized glass jars while it is still warm. Seal the jars tightly with lids and allow the honey to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
Enjoy: Dandelion honey can be used in place of traditional honey in recipes, drizzled over pancakes or yogurt, or spread on toast. It has a delicate floral flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Make sure to use clean, sterilized equipment and jars to prevent contamination and spoilage.
Store dandelion honey in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life. It should keep for several weeks to a few months when properly stored.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste preferences.
Be cautious when foraging for dandelions, and make sure you are picking them from a safe location free from pesticides or other contaminants.
Add comment