Rose Petal and Strawberry Jam

Rose Petal and Strawberry Jam

Makes about 2 cups

2 cups rose petals, gathered first thing in the morning.

1 cup strawberries, dehulled and chopped fine

2 cups coconut sugar

½ tsp salt

4 cups water

Juice of 1-2 lemons

Zest of 1 lemon

1-2 tsp rosewater (optional)

Really wash and massage your rose petals, making sure there aren’t any hitchhikers or debris. Drain them well and put them in a 2 quart, heavy bottomed saucepan. Add the strawberries, sugar, salt, juice of one lemon, lemon zest, and water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.  

Allow to cook, stirring occasionally, until the jam coats the back of a spoon. This can take a long time. I think mine took 2 hours?  It depends on several factors, including the juiciness of your berries and the humidity of the day. 

When it seems about ready, taste it.  Too sweet, add a little more lemon juice. Not a punchy enough rose flavour? Add a little rose water. Tweak it until you can’t stop eating it. Then it’s ready. 

I like to decant it into a bunch of small jars to give away as gifts, but two 8 oz. jars work nicely as well.