How to Spice Up Jams and Jellies With Herbs

Believe it or not, fresh herbs compliment sweet jams and jellies in a very natural way. Most of you have probably heard of mint jelly--and I've seen jellies made from other herbs such as lemon balm and basil. However, I seldom see the two merged together.

I love to incorporate herbs into my food because it is a good way to boost the nutrient content of what I'm eating--and as an herbalist, I know that certain herbs have healing abilities. For example, I often use basil for menstrual cramps.

Instead of taking herbs in the typical ways (I prefer tinctures and teas), consuming them in food is also a good way to get your medicine. Incorporating them into jams and jellies is an easy and tasty way to get the benefits of herbs without the boredom.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup store bought or homemade jam or jelly
• 1/4 cup chopped, fresh herbs
• Mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Glass jar or plastic container

1. Purchase or make the jam or jelly. Feel free to be creative when choosing a flavor, or you can stick to an old standby.

2. Put jam or jelly into a mixing bowl. Add the chopped herbs and stir with a rubber spatula until well combined.

3. Put the mixture into the original glass jar it came in or store it in a new one. You can also use a plastic container.

4. Store in the refrigerator for about a week.

5. Try these combinations:

   Grape jelly and basil
   Raspberry jam and chocolate mint
   Blueberry jam and lemon balm
   Blackberry jam and thyme
   Strawberry jam and lemon verbana

   * Feel free to use any combination you want, but these should get you started.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to be creative!

• You can also use dried herbs. Use 2 teaspoons for every cup of jam or jelly.