Elderflower jelly with oranges

Elderflower jelly with oranges - a fragrant delight for summer days

When it comes to traditional dishes, elderflower jelly with oranges holds a special place in the hearts of many of us. This recipe not only brings a delicious taste and an inviting aroma, but it is also an excellent way to preserve the essence of summer in your jars. Moreover, elderflowers are known for their beneficial properties, adding a boost of health to your diet. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Maceration time: 24 hours
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 54 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 6 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:

- 1 liter of water
- 1 kilogram of sugar
- 500 grams of oranges (preferably organic)
- A generous handful of elderflowers (approximately 200 g)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by picking fresh elderflowers, preferably early in the morning when they are full of fragrance. Make sure they haven't been chemically treated. As for the oranges, opt for organic ones, as their skin is less exposed to pesticides. Wash them well and remove any impurities.

2. Preparing the syrup:
In a large pot, add 1 liter of water and 1 kilogram of sugar. Place it over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. This will become our base for the jelly. Add the juice of one orange and continue to boil the syrup for 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

3. Adding the oranges and elderflowers:
Once the syrup is ready, turn off the heat and add the sliced oranges (you can blanch them for a few minutes to remove any chemicals from the skin). Mix well, then add the elderflowers, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This mixture will macerate for 24 hours; cover the pot with a lid and leave it in a cool place.

4. Straining and bottling:
After 24 hours, you will notice that the flavors have combined deliciously. Use a fine sieve to strain the mixture, separating the elderflowers and orange slices from the syrup. It is important to obtain a clear liquid, so you can filter it multiple times if necessary.

5. Preserving the jelly:
Pour the obtained syrup into clean, dry jars. Place the jars in a preheated oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes to sterilize them. After that, put the lid on each jar and turn them upside down for 30 minutes. This trick will help create a vacuum, extending the shelf life of the jelly.

6. Enjoying:
Once cooled, the jelly can be enjoyed on a slice of toasted bread, as a topping for pancakes, or even as an ingredient in various desserts. The flavors of elderflower and orange combine perfectly, offering a unique tasting experience.

Useful tips:

- How to choose elderflowers: Look for flowers with white, fresh petals, without spots or unpleasant odors. Ideally, use them on the same day you pick them.
- Variations: You can experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lemons or grapefruits, to add a touch of acidity.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown sugar? Yes, but the jelly will have a darker color and a more caramelized taste.
- How can I check if the jelly is thick enough? You can do the plate test: put a drop of jelly on a cold plate and see if it thickens.

Nutritional values (per 100 g):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Sugars: 60 g
- Fiber: 1 g

Elderflower jelly with oranges is not just a simple recipe, but also a way to bring nature into your home. Whether you choose to use it as a dessert or as an ingredient in refreshing cocktails, it will add a touch of magic to your summer. Enjoy each jar and savor the flavors of this recipe that will make you feel like you’ve captured summer in your jars!