Herbal Turtle Jelly

Ingredients

Wolfberries

1/4 cup, for garnish

Dried chrysanthemum flowers

2 tablespoons

Dried honeysuckle flowers

2 tablespoons

Rock sugar

1/2 cup, adjust to taste

Water

4 cups

Turtle shell powder

1/4 cup

Instructions

1. Soak the turtle shell powder in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes to hydrate and activate its properties.
2. 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.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to reduce slightly.
4. After simmering, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the flowers, pressing gently to extract all liquid.
5. 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.
6. Pour the clear liquid into a jelly mold or individual serving cups. Allow it to cool at room temperature.
7. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the jelly is fully set and firm to the touch.
8. 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.