Homemade Rosella Jam Recipe 🍓🍯

Rosella jam is a deliciously tangy and sweet treat made from the vibrant petals of the rosella flower. This tropical delight is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a unique addition to your homemade jam collection. Here's a simple and delicious recipe to make your own rosella jam at home!

Ingredients:

• Aproximatley 72 (6 Dozen) Rosellas

• 2 cups of water

• 1.5 cups of sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (for added tang)

• 1/2 teaspoon of citric acid (optional, to enhance the jam's acidity and preserve color)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Rosella Flowers:

Wash the rosellas in a dish of water. Remove the red fleshy calyx, and the pods, and save each separately.

Cook the Rosella Seed Pods:

In a large saucepan, combine the rosella pods and water.

Place the pods in a saucepan, just cover with water and boil until soft, this process will bring the lovely red colour out.

Remove from heat, strain and save the liquid and place the pods in the compost .

Cook the Flowers

Place the red flowers in a separate saucepan and, using the liquid from the pods, just cover them.

Simmer until soft.

Strain the Mixture:

  Remove and measure ingredients.

Add equal amounts of pulp to sugar (eg one cup of pulp, one cup of sugar), add the lemon juice and citric acid (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Continue simmering for about 30-40 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. You can test this by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate—if it gels, it's ready!

Jar and Store:

Once your rosella jam has thickened, remove it from the heat. Carefully pour it into sterilized glass jars, making sure to leave some space at the top. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature.

Store the jam in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or preserve it by processing the jars in a water bath to ensure longer shelf life.

Tips:

• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the ripeness and tartness of your rosella flowers, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste.

• Add Spices: You can also experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for a unique twist on the classic rosella jam flavor.

• Perfect Pairings: Rosella jam is delicious spread on toast, drizzled over yogurt, or used as a topping for desserts like cakes and cheesecakes. Jam can also be used as you would a cranberry jam on turkey or pork.

Final Thoughts:

Rosella jam is a beautiful and delicious way to preserve the unique flavors of the rosella flower. Its tangy-sweet taste is perfect for pairing with your favorite breakfast items or enjoying as a refreshing snack. Whether you’ve harvested fresh rosella flowers or bought them from the store, this homemade jam is sure to impress your friends and family!