When you picture a bouquet of fresh flowers, you usually think of common favourites like roses, carnations and chrysanthemums. These are all types of flowers that you will likely find at your local florist throughout the year. When you think of dandelions, it’s easy to think of them more as a pest than a flower, and when you send flowers, you aren’t sending a bunch of dandelions. While you might not want to send a bouquet of dandelions, you can send dandelion honey as a thoughtful gift. This delightful treat makes a fantastic gift for anyone and is also great to have in your home to serve with tea. Making this delicious honey takes time, but the good news is that it is extremely simple.

What you need:

– 4 cups of freshly picked dandelion petals

– 4 cups of water

– 3 thick lemon slices (each of which approximately 1/4 inch thick)

– Half a vanilla bean (split in half)

– 2 and 1/8 cups of white sugar

Directions:

  • When picking the flowers for your dandelion honey, you should do so when they are in full bloom. Usually, during the middle of the day is perfect.

  • Remove the petals from each flower and make sure that you have enough to fill four cups.

  • Wash the petals thoroughly before placing them in a pot with water, lemon slices and vanilla.

  • Bring the mixture to a slow boil and avoid allowing it to boil too furiously.

  • Once the boiling starts, reduce the heat to simmer for 30 minutes.

  • Remove the mixture from heat and allow to rest for about 6 hours.

  • Strain the mixture through some cheesecloth and discard the solid pieces.

  • Place the liquid back on the stove and slowly bring this mixture to a boil again.

  • Add the sugar to the mixture and stir slowly until dissolved.

  • Once dissolved, reduce the heat and allow to simmer until the mixture reaches its desired thickness This can take about 4 hours.

  • Remove the mixture from the stove and allow to cool before placing in a jar to enjoy on your next batch of pancakes or even add to various recipes.

This recipe makes about a cup of honey. Since it’s such a long process, you might want to consider making a larger batch. Pack a few jars and package the finished honey as a gift if you like. You can decorate the jars with fresh dandelions if they’re in season when you deliver your gift. Given the amount of time needed to make dandelion honey, it’s important that you start making this recipe early in the morning so that you aren’t tempted to rush the process.