Transform your abundant rosemary into a delightful homemade jelly with this simple and medicinal recipe passed down from my grandmother. This rosemary jelly, taking only 5 minutes of preparation time, not only offers a delicious accompaniment to both savory and sweet dishes but also carries the aromatic essence of the Mediterranean and beneficial health properties.
Ingredients:
5 sprigs of rosemary (about 30g)
150g sugar
1 tablespoon honey
500ml water
3g agar-agar
Glass jars for storage
Instructions:
Prepare the Rosemary: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the rosemary sprigs under cold water.
Infuse the Rosemary: In a saucepan, immerse the rosemary in water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover it, and let it infuse for 15 minutes.
Strain the Infusion:
After the infusion period, strain it into a salad bowl using a colander, and allow it to cool down.
Mix in Agar-Agar: Once the infusion has cooled, stir in the agar-agar until well combined.
Add Sugar and Honey: Incorporate the sugar and honey into the mixture, stirring until fully dissolved.
Gently Heat: Place the mixture back on low heat, warming it gently until the sugar completely melts. Ensure it doesn’t boil.
Jar the Jelly: Pour the finished jelly into glass jars. Allow them to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
This versatile jelly can be a unique gift or a delightful addition to your culinary creations, offering a taste of the Mediterranean right from your kitchen.
Serving Suggestions:
Toast: Spread it over warm toast for a herbaceous start to your day.
Cheese Pairing: Accompany sheep’s or goat’s cheese for a sophisticated snack.
Desserts: Serve alongside yogurt cake, biscuits, or ice cream for a unique dessert experience.
Savory Dishes: Enhance smoked ham or other meats with its unique flavor.
Medicinal Benefits:
Rosemary is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and expectorant properties, making this jelly not just a treat but a potential remedy for colds and bronchitis. A tablespoon of jelly or diluted in hot water can make a comforting herbal tea.
Recipe Variations:
Feel free to personalize your rosemary jelly:
Add thyme, lavender flowers, or lemon peels for a different twist.
Incorporate juice from figs, apples, quince, peaches, cherries, or oranges for a fruity note.
Select a strong-tasting honey to deepen the flavor profile.
This homemade rosemary jelly recipe invites you to embrace the full potential of your garden herbs while indulging in the creative joy of cooking. Whether as a personal treat or a thoughtful gift, this rosemary jelly is sure to delight.