Hibiscus Jelly

Hibiscus is slightly acidic making this a vibrant red sweet and tangy jelly. Can be used to ice tea, top toast, pancakes, ice cream added to margaritas, martinis or drinks that calls for simple syrup try this jelly, Glaze grilled chicken or pork. The possibilities are endless. Is high in vitamin C and is a natural diuretic. It is sometimes recommended by Mexican herbalists as a remedy for high blood pressure. Hibiscus flowers also known as roselle or rozelle, sorrel, red sorrel, saril, Jamaica sorrel, Indian sorrel, sour-sour, Guinea sorrel, Queensland jelly plant, lemon bush, rosa de Jamaica, flor de Jamaica, Jamaica, quimbombó chino, Florida cranberry, oseille rouge, oseille de Guinée, sereni, agrio de Guinea, viña, viñuela, vinagreira, curudú azédo, quiabeiro azédo, zuring, carcadé, bisap....

• Ready In: 1 hr 10 mins
• Serves: 80
• Yields: 7 half pint jars

Ingredients

• 1⁄4 cup  flor de jamaica  dried hibiscus flowers
• 1 1⁄2 cups  unsweetened apple juice or 1 1⁄2 cups  unsweetened cranberry juice
• 1  cup boiling water
• 1  cup vinegar
• 1  lemon, juice (about 4 tablespoons)
• 1 3⁄4 ounces  dry pectin
• 5 1⁄2 cups sugar

• Optional Additions

• 1⁄4 inch  fresh gingerroot, peeled will give a nice kick
• 4  cardamom pods, crushed, will give warmth
• 1  cinnamon stick

Directions

1. Steep dried blossom in boiling water off heat adding any optional ingredients if using. Steep for 1-2 hour over night is fine.
2. Prepare boiling water canner and lids and jars.
3. Strain steeped liquid twice the second time through a coffee filter. Discarding solids.
4. Place all ingredients but the sugar in a large heavy pot bring to a rolling boil.
5. Add sugar and return to a rolling boil.
6. Ladle into sterile jars leaving 1/4 inch head space. Wipe rims clean and apply lids and bands.
7. Process in a hot water bath covered by 1-2 inches of water for 10 minutes.
8. Shut off flame for 5 minutes.
9. Remove without tilting the jars.
10. Set on a flat surface in a draft free place 12-24 hours.
11. Remove bands and wipe jars.
12. Label and store in a dark place for 1 year.