Recipe: Lemon Jelly with Lavender

Recipe: Lemon Jelly with Lavender

Lemon jelly with lavender is a delicate and refreshing dessert that combines the tart brightness of lemons with the fragrant floral notes of lavender. This elegant treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings, offering a light, zesty flavor complemented by the soothing fragrance of lavender. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a delightful treat to end your meal, this lemon jelly is sure to impress with its unique flavor and beautiful presentation.

Making this dessert at home is surprisingly simple. The lemon jelly is smooth, with a slight tanginess from the citrus, while the lavender adds a gentle, aromatic twist that’s not overpowering. Whether you serve it in individual glasses or as a shared dish, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s also a versatile recipe that can be easily adjusted based on personal preferences.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Jelly:

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds (or 2 tablespoons of fresh lavender)
• 2 teaspoons agar-agar powder (or gelatin for a non-vegan version)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1-2 tablespoons honey (optional, for added sweetness)

For Garnish:

• Fresh lavender sprigs (for decoration)
• Lemon slices or zest (optional, for garnish)

Equipment:

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Fine mesh strainer
• Small bowls or glasses for serving
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board (for zesting)

Instructions

Step 1: Infuse the Lavender

1. Prepare the Lavender Infusion
   In a small saucepan, combine the water and dried lavender buds. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat and let the lavender steep for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The water should take on a light purple hue, and the aroma of lavender should fill the kitchen.

2. Strain the Infusion
   After the lavender has steeped, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the lavender buds. Set the lavender-infused water aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Jelly

1. Mix the Lemon Juice and Sugar
   In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together.

2. Add the Lavender Infusion
   Add the lavender-infused water to the lemon mixture. Stir to combine the ingredients, allowing the lavender flavor to infuse with the lemon syrup.

3. Incorporate the Agar-Agar
   If you’re using agar-agar, sprinkle the agar-agar powder evenly into the hot liquid while whisking continuously. If you’re using gelatin, first bloom the gelatin by sprinkling it over 2 tablespoons of cold water and letting it sit for 5 minutes before adding it to the warm liquid. Stir until the agar-agar or gelatin is fully dissolved.

Step 3: Set the Jelly

1. Pour the Jelly Mixture into Molds
   Once the agar-agar or gelatin has dissolved, pour the mixture into small bowls, glasses, or tartlet molds. Leave some space at the top for garnish. If you want to achieve a firmer consistency, refrigerate the jelly for 4-6 hours, or until it has set completely.

2. Chill the Jelly
   Place the filled molds in the refrigerator and allow the jelly to set for at least 4 hours. It should be firm to the touch when fully set. For best results, chill overnight to ensure it holds its shape perfectly.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish with Lavender
   Once the jelly has set, remove it from the molds and place it on serving dishes. Garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender or a few lemon slices for a beautiful and aromatic presentation.

2. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve the lemon jelly with lavender as a refreshing dessert for any occasion. Its light, citrusy flavor paired with the subtle lavender aroma makes it a perfect dessert for summer parties, afternoon tea, or as a light end to a meal.

Tips and Variations

1. Vegan Version
   If you prefer a vegan version, agar-agar is an excellent alternative to gelatin, as it is plant-based and will give the jelly a firm, smooth texture. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for added sweetness.

2. Adjust the Lavender
   Lavender can be quite potent, so adjust the amount according to your preference. If you prefer a more subtle flavor, start with a smaller amount of lavender, or add it gradually while tasting the mixture.

3. Add a Layer of Fresh Fruit
   For a colorful and refreshing twist, add fresh fruit to the jelly before it sets. Small pieces of fresh berries, thin slices of kiwi, or orange segments work well with the lemon and lavender flavors.

4. Make It in Advance
   This jelly is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day or two in advance, as it will keep well in the fridge and will allow the flavors to develop even more.

Health Benefits

1. Lemon
   Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and keeps your skin healthy. The citrus flavor also aids digestion and detoxification.

2. Lavender
   Lavender is known for its calming properties. It can help reduce stress and anxiety and improve sleep quality. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

3. Low in Calories
   This dessert is relatively low in calories compared to heavier, cream-based desserts. It's a refreshing way to satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling overly full.

Conclusion

Lemon jelly with lavender is a light, refreshing dessert that beautifully combines the tartness of lemon with the aromatic floral notes of lavender. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, this dessert is as delightful to the senses as it is to the palate. Whether you’re serving it at a summer dinner party, enjoying it as a simple treat, or looking for a new and unique dessert to add to your repertoire, this lemon jelly with lavender will certainly impress.

Give it a try and experience the harmony of citrus and lavender in every spoonful!