Teresa's Recipes
Herbal Turtle Jelly
Herbal Turtle Jelly is a cherished traditional Chinese dessert celebrated for its refreshing and cooling properties, especially favored during warm weather. This delicacy combines the unique flavor of turtle shell powder with the floral notes of honeysuckle and chrysanthemum flowers, creating a subtly sweet, herbal jelly that is not only delightful but also believed to offer health benefits. Served chilled and garnished with vibrant wolfberries, it’s a visually stunning treat that evokes the essence of ancient Chinese culinary traditions.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup, for garnish Wolfberries
- 2 tablespoons Dried chrysanthemum flowers
- 2 tablespoons Dried honeysuckle flowers
- 1/2 cup, adjust to taste Rock sugar
- 4 cups Water
- 1/4 cup Turtle shell powder
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Dessert
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 22g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Sugar: 18g
Instructions
- Soak the turtle shell powder in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes to hydrate and activate its properties.
- In a pot, combine the soaked turtle shell mixture (including the soaking water), dried honeysuckle flowers, dried chrysanthemum flowers, and the remaining 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to reduce slightly.
- After simmering, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the flowers, pressing gently to extract all liquid.
- Return the strained liquid to the pot and add the rock sugar. Stir over low heat until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a sweet and fragrant herbal infusion.
- Pour the clear liquid into a jelly mold or individual serving cups. Allow it to cool at room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the jelly is fully set and firm to the touch.
- To serve, carefully unmold the jelly onto a plate or serve directly in cups, garnished with wolfberries for a pop of color and added texture.
Tips
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of rock sugar based on your preference.
- For an added twist, consider infusing the jelly with other herbs like goji berries or mint for enhanced flavor and health benefits.
- This jelly pairs beautifully with light teas, especially jasmine or green tea.