Blueberry Lavender Jelly Recipe

Blueberry Lavender Jelly is a delightful and aromatic treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe blueberries with the subtle floral notes of lavender. This unique jelly is perfect for those looking for a sophisticated twist on traditional fruit preserves. Whether you're spreading it on toast, serving it with cheese, or enjoying it on its own, this jelly adds a beautiful burst of flavor to any dish. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own homemade blueberry lavender jelly.

Ingredients

• Blueberries: 500 grams (about 2 cups), fresh or frozen.
• Lavender: 1 tablespoon of dried lavender buds (ensure it is food-grade lavender).
• Sugar: 400 grams (around 2 cups) of granulated sugar.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed from one lemon.
• Pectin: 1 packet (or the amount specified on the pectin package, usually around 1.75 oz or 50 grams).
• Water: 1 cup.

Equipment

• A large pot
• A fine mesh strainer
• Sterilized jars with lids
• A wooden spoon
• A candy thermometer or jam thermometer (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure that all your ingredients are ready to go. Measure out the sugar, and lemon juice, and have your pectin handy. If you’re using fresh blueberries, wash them thoroughly. If you're using frozen blueberries, you don’t need to thaw them before use.

You’ll also want to sterilize your jars and lids to ensure the jelly stays preserved for as long as possible. This can be done by placing the jars and lids in boiling water for about 5 minutes, then letting them air dry on a clean towel.

2. Make the Lavender Infusion

In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the dried lavender buds, remove the saucepan from the heat, and let it steep for 10-15 minutes. The lavender will infuse the water, giving it a delicate floral flavor that will complement the blueberries. After steeping, strain the lavender water through a fine mesh strainer to remove the buds, and set the infused water aside.

3. Cook the Blueberries

In a large pot, combine the blueberries with the lavender infusion and cook over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to mash the blueberries as they cook. Continue cooking for about 10-15 minutes until the blueberries have broken down and released their juices.

4. Strain the Mixture

Once the blueberries are fully mashed and have released their juice, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the skins and pulp. Press the mixture gently with the back of the spoon to extract as much juice as possible. You should be left with a smooth, blueberry-lavender juice.

5. Add Sugar and Lemon Juice

Return the strained juice to the pot and stir in the sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The acidity of the lemon helps balance the sweetness of the blueberries and enhances the overall flavor of the jelly.

6. Add the Pectin

Next, sprinkle the pectin over the blueberry mixture and stir well to dissolve. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to ensure the pectin is fully dissolved and the sugar is completely incorporated. If you have a candy thermometer, use it to monitor the temperature. The jelly should reach about 220°F (104°C), which is the ideal setting point for fruit preserves. This may take around 10-15 minutes of boiling.

7. Test for Set

To test whether the jelly is ready, place a small spoonful of the mixture onto a chilled plate and place it in the freezer for a few minutes. If the jelly wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it is set and ready for canning. If it is still runny, continue boiling for another 5-10 minutes and test again.

8. Can the Jelly

Once the jelly has reached the proper consistency, carefully pour it into your sterilized jars. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top of each jar. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure there are no spills that could prevent proper sealing. Immediately screw the lids onto the jars and process them in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure a good seal.

9. Let the Jelly Cool and Set

Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. You may hear the familiar "pop" sound as the lids seal, indicating that your jelly is properly preserved. Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. The jelly can be enjoyed within a few days, but it often tastes even better after sitting for a week or so, allowing the flavors to fully meld together.

10. Enjoy Your Blueberry Lavender Jelly

After all that hard work, it’s time to enjoy your homemade blueberry lavender jelly. Spread it on toast, drizzle it over desserts, or serve it with soft cheese for a sophisticated appetizer. The subtle floral notes of lavender pair beautifully with the rich, sweet flavor of the blueberries, making this jelly a unique and delightful treat.

Tips for Perfecting Your Blueberry Lavender Jelly

• Use Food-Grade Lavender: Not all lavender is suitable for consumption, so make sure you're using food-grade lavender buds.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jelly, feel free to reduce the amount of sugar. However, keep in mind that sugar is crucial not only for sweetness but also for the preservation process.
• Try Other Fruits: While blueberries are the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits, like raspberries or blackberries, to create your own variation of this jelly.
• Flavor Variations: For a more complex flavor, you can add a hint of lemon zest or even a touch of vanilla extract to the jelly during the cooking process.

Conclusion

Blueberry Lavender Jelly is the perfect blend of fruity sweetness and floral elegance. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a jar of this homemade jelly that will impress your friends and family. Whether served with breakfast, as part of a cheese platter, or enjoyed on its own, this jelly is a versatile treat that adds a special touch to any meal. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful recipe and savor the unique flavors it offers!