1. Can I use fresh hibiscus flowers instead of dried ones?

While dried hibiscus flowers are typically used in this recipe for their concentrated flavor, you can use fresh hibiscus flowers as well. However, you may need to adjust the quantity to achieve the same intensity of flavor since dried flowers are more potent.

2. How can I adjust the sweetness of the Hibiscus Orange Jam?

You can easily modify the sweetness of this jam to suit your taste by adjusting the amount of sugar. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by a quarter or half. You can also use alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia for a more natural approach.

3. Can I make Hibiscus Orange Jam without agar agar?

Yes, agar agar can be substituted with other gelling agents like pectin or gelatin, although agar agar gives the jam its unique consistency. If you choose to use pectin, follow the instructions on the package for the proper ratio.

Hibiscus Orange Jam Recipe

Name: Hibiscus Orange Jam
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 30 g dried hibiscus flowers; Peel from one orange, finely grated; 480 ml water; 300 g blonde sugar (or Turbinado/Demerara); 1 1/2 teaspoons agar agar powder

Description

Hibiscus Orange Jam is a unique and vibrant spread that combines the floral tang of hibiscus with the sweet citrusy notes of orange. It’s a versatile and easy-to-make jam perfect for toast, scones, desserts, and even tea. Made with simple ingredients like dried hibiscus flowers, orange peel, and agar agar powder, this jam is both delicious and vegan-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale

30 g dried hibiscus flowers
Peel from one orange, finely grated
480 ml water
300 g blonde sugar (or Turbinado/Demerara)
1 1/2 teaspoons agar agar powder

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a saucepan, combine the dried hibiscus flowers, finely grated orange peel, blonde sugar, and 480 ml water.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
If you prefer a smoother jam, strain the liquid and discard the solids. For a chunkier jam, blend the mixture until the desired texture is reached.
Dissolve the agar agar powder in a small amount of cold water, then add it to the liquid in the saucepan.
Stir well and continue simmering for an additional few minutes until the jam reaches your desired consistency.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool slightly.
Pour the jam into sterilized jars, seal, and allow to cool completely before storing.

Notes

Adjust the sweetness by varying the sugar amount according to your taste.
If you prefer a smoother consistency, strain out the solids after simmering.
Store in sterilized jars for best shelf life, keeping in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
You can substitute agar agar with pectin or gelatin for a different texture.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Jam
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 50 kcal
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 0 mg
Fat: 0 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 13 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 0 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg