Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups of Empress Tree flowers
- 4 cups of water
- 4 cups of sugar
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 packet of pectin
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cheesecloth
- Mason jars with lids
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse Empress Tree flowers and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large pot, combine the flowers and water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth, squeezing out as much liquid as possible.
5. Return the liquid to the pot and add sugar and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
6. Add pectin and continue to boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
8. Pour the jam into sterilized mason jars and let cool to room temperature.
9. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Boiling temperature
Serving size:
Makes about 4 cups of jam
Nutritional information:
Calories: 50 per tablespoon
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Empress Tree flowers can be substituted with lilac or rose petals.
- Lemon juice can be substituted with lime or orange juice.
- Pectin can be substituted with agar agar or gelatin.
Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a subtle flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of lavender for a floral twist.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use freshly picked Empress Tree flowers for the best flavor.
- Sterilize mason jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches the correct temperature.
Storage instructions:
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Reheating instructions:
Microwave for 10 seconds or heat in a saucepan over low heat.
Presentation ideas:
Serve on toast or as a topping for ice cream.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh Empress Tree flowers or a slice of lemon.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of tea or a glass of champagne.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with scones or croissants.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too runny, add more pectin and boil for an additional 5 minutes.
- If the jam is too thick, add a splash of water and boil for an additional 5 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Always use clean and sterilized equipment when making jam.
- Store in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Empress Tree flowers have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
Empress Tree jam has a floral and slightly sweet flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve on toast or as a topping for ice cream.
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