Homesteader's Fireweed Honey

Submitted by Tazer

"From Alaska's Outdoor Journal in "What's cookin in Marylin's kitchen" In the old days, Alaskan homesteaders did not have access to many of the food stuffs found in stores in the more civilized areas. So a great amount of their innovation was derived from using existing resources in creative ways. Honey was one of those condiments that was always in short supply in the early days of Alaska history. But here is a way to make a substitute "honey" for mere pennies. I have always made this especially when the kids were younger and they loved honey but the real thing was very expensive. People are always amazed that it tastes like the real thing! And I've often substituted it in my "honey bears" without anyone knowing the difference. ;-)"

 

• Ready In: 1hr
• Ingredients: 6
• Yields: 1/2 Gallon

ingredients

• 50 red clover blossoms
• 10 white clover blossoms
• 18 -25 fireweed blossoms
• 3⁄4 teaspoon alum
• 5 lbs sugar
• 3 cups boiling water

directions

1. Wash blooms in cold water (gently rinse) to remove little critters.
2. Put all ingredients except water in pan, then pour boiling water on.
3. Let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Bring to boil and boil for 10 minutes.
5. Strain through cheesecloth.
6. Put in canning jars and water bath process for 10 minute before sealing lids.

Reviews

[Brian K.]

Quick and easy! Produced an EXCELLENT quality honey!

 

[MarraMamba]

5 stars for a true heritage recipe. I can't make it because i dont even have clover blossoms around me - what does it say about society when it is easier to find bought honey than to make this "uncivilized" substitute!