Harvest Moon Roselle Sauce Recipe
Discover the Wonders of Roselle: The Cranberry Hibiscus
Roselle, often referred to as Cranberry Hibiscus, Florida Cranberry and Jamaican Sorrel, is a delightful type of hibiscus known for its tangy flavor and vibrant appearance. The part of the plant that we typically use is the calyx, which is not only beautiful but also versatile in culinary applications and packed with health benefits.
Common Uses of Roselle
Roselle is celebrated for its refreshing taste and can be used in various ways:
Tea: The calyces make a wonderful herbal tea, whether enjoyed hot or cold. They can be used fresh or dried and pair beautifully with other herbs like holy basil and oatstraw.
Refreshing Beverages: A delightful combination of roselle with rose hips, orange peel, and a touch of spearmint creates a refreshingly chilled drink perfect for warm days.
Jams and Sauces: The tangy flavor of roselle makes it an ideal ingredient for jams, jellies, and sauces, adding a unique twist to your culinary creations.
Where Roselle Grows
Roselle thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, making it a popular plant in regions like Florida and parts of Africa and Asia. It enjoys well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine, growing to heights of about 4 to 6 feet, adorned with bright burgundy or whitish-green calyxes that are ready to be harvested.
Health Benefits of Roselle
Roselle is not just tasty; it also boasts numerous health benefits:
Rich in Antioxidants: The calyxes are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and support immune health.
Digestive Aid: Known to promote digestion, roselle can soothe stomach issues and help maintain a healthy gut.
Hydration: With its high water content, roselle is a refreshing addition to your beverages, helping to keep you hydrated.
Harvest Moon Roselle Sauce
This roselle sauce is simply incredible! It pairs beautifully with turkey and is perfect for holiday feasts. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
3 cups chopped fresh roselle calyces, (the outer “flower petal” portion only)
3 cups Gala apples, cut into small cubes
1 cup spring water
½ cup tangerine juice (orange juice can be used as a substitute)
Juice from ½ a lemon
¾ cup sugar
1 teaspoon sea salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
Combine all the ingredients in a pot, cover, and bring to a strong boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once done, you ‘ll have a delicious sauce that made about six 8-ounce jars (with a little left over to enjoy right away!).
For long-term storage, perform a water bath canning process for 10 minutes if you're in Florida. If you're unfamiliar with water bath canning, a quick online search will provide you with helpful instructions.
Enjoy the unique flavors and health benefits of roselle in your cooking, and don't forget to savor that amazing sauce during your holiday celebrations!