Nasturtium jelly is a delightful way to capture the peppery, floral notes of nasturtium flowers in a sweet, tangy preserve. Its vibrant color and unique flavor make it a charming addition to cheese boards, toast, or even as a glaze for meats. This jelly works well because the petals provide natural pectin and acidity, ensuring a balanced gel with a fresh, garden-inspired taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh nasturtium flowers (petals only, about 3-4 cups whole flowers)
- 3 cups water
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
Instructions
- Remove nasturtium petals from the flowers, discarding stems and green parts to avoid bitterness. Rinse petals gently under cold water to remove any dirt or insects.
- In a large saucepan, combine the nasturtium petals and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes to extract the color and flavor.
- Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or measuring cup, pressing lightly to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the petals.
- Measure the nasturtium-infused liquid; you should have about 2½ to 3 cups. Pour the liquid back into the cleaned saucepan.
- Stir in the lemon juice and powdered pectin. Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
- Add the sugar all at once, stirring thoroughly to dissolve. Return to a full rolling boil and boil hard for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
- Remove the pan from heat and skim off any foam with a metal spoon for a clearer jelly.
- Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids, and process jars in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes to ensure safe preservation.
- Remove jars and let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals before storing.
Tips
- Petal Selection: Use only fresh, pesticide-free nasturtium petals. Avoid any discolored or wilted petals for the best flavor and color.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is crucial for acidity to help the gel set and to preserve the jelly safely. Do not omit or substitute with less acidic juice.
- Testing Set: To check if the jelly is set before canning, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and tilt it. If it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s ready.
- Storage: Once opened, keep the jelly refrigerated and consume within 3 weeks for optimal freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Nasturtium jelly’s peppery and floral notes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Spread it on warm buttered toast or freshly baked scones for a bright breakfast treat. It also complements soft cheeses like goat cheese, brie, or cream cheese, making it perfect for cheese boards and appetizers. Try it as a glaze on roasted chicken or pork to add a subtle, tangy sweetness. For a creative twist, stir a spoonful into salad dressings or vinaigrettes for an unexpected floral kick.
Variations
You can customize nasturtium jelly in several ways. For a spicier note, add a small piece of fresh ginger or a pinch of ground black pepper during the simmering step, then strain out before setting. To deepen the color and flavor, mix in a handful of rose petals or hibiscus flowers with the nasturtium petals. Alternatively, substitute part of the water with apple or white grape juice to add natural sweetness and complexity. For a lower-sugar version, use a low-sugar or no-sugar pectin and adjust the sugar quantity accordingly, but expect a slightly different texture.
Storage and Reheating
Properly canned nasturtium jelly can be stored unopened in a cool, dark pantry for up to 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3 weeks for best flavor and safety. Avoid freezing jelly as it can alter the texture and cause separation. If you’d like to gently warm the jelly for use as a glaze or sauce, heat it slowly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until melted. Do not boil after opening to preserve quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the whole nasturtium flower, including stems?
No, only the petals should be used. The stems and green parts tend to be bitter and can negatively affect the flavor of the jelly.
How many flowers do I need to get 2 cups of petals?
Typically, about 3 to 4 cups of whole nasturtium flowers will yield around 2 cups of petals once the green parts are removed.
Is nasturtium jelly safe to can using a water bath?
Yes, nasturtium jelly is a high-acid food due to the lemon juice and natural acidity of the flowers, making it safe for water bath canning. Always follow USDA guidelines for processing times and jar sterilization.
What if my jelly doesn’t set?
If the jelly fails to set, it may be due to insufficient pectin, low acidity, or incorrect boiling time. You can re-boil it with additional pectin following the package instructions or use it as a syrup or sauce instead.
Can I use dried nasturtium petals?
Fresh petals are best for flavor and color. Dried petals tend to lose potency and may produce a weaker flavor and less vibrant jelly.
How tart or sweet is nasturtium jelly?
It has a balanced sweet and slightly tangy flavor with a subtle peppery note from the flowers, making it refreshing and versatile.
Can I make nasturtium jelly without added pectin?
Nasturtium petals contain some natural pectin but not enough for a reliable set. Adding commercial pectin ensures a firm jelly with consistent texture.
Is nasturtium jelly gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, nasturtium jelly contains only plant-based ingredients and no gluten, making it suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets.
Can I substitute lemon juice with vinegar?
No, lemon juice is preferred for its acidity and flavor. Vinegar will alter the taste and is generally not recommended for fruit or flower jellies.
How do I sterilize jars properly?
Wash jars and lids in hot soapy water, rinse well, then boil jars in a large pot of water for 10 minutes or run through a dishwasher cycle on high heat. Keep jars hot until filling to prevent cracking.
By following this recipe, you’ll capture the unique essence of nasturtium flowers in a beautifully bright jelly that adds an elegant touch to your kitchen creations. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and serving ideas to make the most of this seasonal delight.
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