Food Gifts in a Jar - Jelly, Jam, Preserves and Syrup

Lemon Verbena Jelly

Source: Morning Sun Herb Farm - Vacaville, California

2 cups packed, coarsely chopped
    lemon verbena leaves
6 strips (1/2 x 3 inches) lemon zest
2 1/4 cups water
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
4 cups granulated sugar
3 ounces liquid pectin

Put the lemon verbena leaves, lemon zest and water into a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over moderate to high heat, then turn the heat to simmer and cover the pan. Cook for 15 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat and allow to stand, covered, for several hours.

Pour the infusion through a strainer into a large, deep saucepan. Press on the leaves to extract all flavor, then discard the leaves and zest. Stir in the lemon juice and sugar and bring to a full boil over high heat. Add the pectin and return to a full boil, stirring constantly. Continue to boil for 2 minutes, stirring.

Remove from the heat and skim the foam, if necessary. Ladle the jelly into hot sterilized jars. Seal with new lids and metal rings. This subtly flavored jelly is good with scones or toasted brioche, or in the center of thumbprint butter cookies.

Makes five 6-ounce jars.