Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh rhubarb stalks, trimmed and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces (about 6 cups)
• 1½ cups filtered water
• 2 high-quality Earl Grey tea bags
• 3½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare for canning: If processing for shelf stability, wash 4 half-pint jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Rinse well. Keep jars hot in simmering water or a 225°F oven until ready to fill. Place flat lids in a small bowl and cover with hot water to soften the sealing compound.
2. Extract the rhubarb juice: In a large, heavy-bottomed stainless steel or enameled cast iron pot, combine chopped rhubarb and water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until rhubarb completely breaks down and becomes soft and pulpy, about 15-20 minutes. The rhubarb should easily crush against the side of the pot.
3. Infuse with Earl Grey: Remove pot from heat. Add tea bags, cover, and let steep for exactly 6 minutes. This timing extracts the bergamot flavor without becoming bitter. Gently remove tea bags without squeezing them, as this would release bitter tannins.
4. Strain the mixture: Place a dampened jelly bag or several layers of cheesecloth in a large strainer set over a deep bowl. Carefully pour the rhubarb mixture into the jelly bag. Cover with a clean kitchen towel to protect from dust, and allow to drip for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. Do not squeeze the bag – this ensures crystal-clear jelly. You should get approximately 3 cups of strained juice.
5. Measure the juice: Pour the strained juice into a liquid measuring cup to confirm the yield. You’ll need exactly 3 cups for the recipe. If slightly short, add water; if extra, reserve for another use.
6. Prepare for cooking: Before cooking the jelly, place 2-3 small plates in the freezer for testing the gel set later. If processing for shelf stability, fill your water bath canner with water and begin heating to a boil.
7. Cook the jelly: Pour the measured juice into a clean, wide, heavy-bottomed pot. Add sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Stir over low heat until sugar completely dissolves. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil vigorously, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, until the mixture reaches 220°F (104°C) on a candy thermometer. This typically takes 10-15 minutes.
8. Test the set: To confirm setting point, place a teaspoon of hot jelly on a chilled plate and return to freezer for 1 minute. Push edge of jelly with your finger – if it wrinkles and doesn’t immediately flow back, it’s ready. If not, continue cooking for 2-minute intervals, testing after each.
9. Skim and fill jars: Remove from heat. Skim off any foam with a metal spoon. Ladle hot jelly into prepared hot jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims with dampened clean paper towel to remove any residue. Center lids on jars and apply bands, tightening just until fingertip-tight.
10. Process (optional but recommended): Place filled jars in water bath canner with simmering water. Ensure jars are covered by at least 1 inch of water. Bring to a full rolling boil, cover, and process for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary). Turn off heat, remove canner lid, and let jars sit for 5 minutes before removing to a towel-lined surface.
11. Cool and store: Allow jars to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals – buttons should be depressed and not flex when pressed. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate any unsealed jars and use within 3 weeks.
12. Enjoy the set jelly: For the fullest flavor development, wait at least 24 hours before opening your first jar. The jelly is beautiful on buttered toast, scones, or paired with sharp cheeses.