Go Back
+ servings
Fireweed jelly stored in jars

Fireweed Jelly Recipe

Creating your own fireweed jelly can be a healthy alternative to store bought jellies. In Alaska, fireweed can be found anywhere - just make sure you harvest your fireweed blossoms away from roads and on public land.
5 from 21 votes
Print Pin
Course: Alaskan Recipes
Cuisine: American
Keyword: fireweed jelly
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 24 oz

Ingredients

  • 8 cups fireweed blossoms (packed)
  • 6 cups water
  • ¼ cup lemon juice (fresh is best but bottled works too)
  • 2 packets Sure-Jell fruit pectin
  • 5-7 cups sugar (to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon butter (to help reduce foam)

Materials

  • Bag or bucket for collecting fireweed flowers
  • 1 Large Pot
  • 1 Cheesecloth or metal strainer
  • 1 Stirring spoon
  • 1 Ladle
  • 6-8 Canning jars with pressure sealable lids (4 oz size suggested)
  • Tongs (for removal of the jars)

Instructions

  • Go out and harvest fireweed blossoms! Rinse flowers, remove unwanted/dead leaves.
  • Add flowers and 6 cups water to large pot, bring to boil for 10 minutes.
  • Use strainer to remove leaves, leaving fireweed juice.
  • Bring fireweed juice to a rolling boil.
  • Add lemon juice.
  • Add butter to reduce foaming (can be skipped, just remove any foam before canning).
  • Add pectin, continue to stir so the pectin does not clump together.
  • Add sugar one cup at a time while stirring. May want to taste test to determine amount of sugar needed.
  • Remove from heat after boiling for 5 minutes.
  • Use ladle to put into jars (leave ¼ gap at top).
  • Secure jar tops and rings, place into water bath.

Notes

If you want to make your fireweed jelly spicy or tart, check out our tips below for our fireweed jelly recipe alternatives.