Fireweed Jelly

I make several batches of this each summer when the fireweed in alaska is in bloom. my kids always help pick the blooms and are always eager to eat the finished product. its important that only the blooms are harvested - not the stems. also, i have tried this recipe several times with certo and it will not set so be sure to use sure-jell or a powdered pectin. prep time is estimated (depends on how long it takes you to pick fireweed, i guess!) extra juice can be stored in fridge or freezer.!

Steps

For fireweed juice: harvest about 8 packed cups of fireweed flowers.

Rinse thoroughly and put in 2 quart pot.

Add just enough water to make water level just below top of packed flowers.

Boil flowers in water until color is boiled out and petals are a grayish color.

Ladle juice into jar through cheesecloth to strain.

Warm fireweed juice , lemon juice and butter on stovetop.

Add sure-jell , bring to boil and boil hard for one minute.

Add sugar and bring to full boil for one minute.

Skim top of jelly.

Pour into pitcherand skim again.

Fill sterilized jars leaving 1 / 8 inch space at top.

Process in hot water bath for 10 minutes.

Ingredients

fireweed juice, lemon juice, butter, dry pectin, sugar