What is dandelion wine, and how do you make it?
Dandelion wine is an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting the flowers of the dandelion plant. It is possible to make dandelion wine with or without the addition of sugar. When sugar is added, the dandelion wine has a sweeter taste. The alcohol content of dandelion wine can vary depending on how long it is left to ferment.
Dandelion wine has been made for centuries and was even mentioned in the works of ancient Roman writers. The make dandelion wine, the dandelion flowers are picked and then boiled in water. After the dandelions have boiled, the water is removed and the dandelions are mashed. The mashed dandelions are then combined with sugar and yeast and left to ferment.
Once the dandelion wine has finished fermenting, it can be bottled and stored. Dandelion wine can be drunk immediately, or it can be aged for a more mellow flavor.
How to make dandelion wine without yeast
Start by collecting about two quarts of dandelion blossoms. It’s easiest to do this early in the morning, before the sun has a chance to make the flowers droop. Once you have your dandelions, give them a quick rinse in cool water to remove any dirt or bugs. Next, place the dandelions in a large pot or container, and cover them with boiling water. Let the mixture sit for at least 24 hours, stirring occasionally.
After 24 hours, strain the dandelions from the liquid using a cheesecloth or coffee filter. Pour the liquid into a clean pot, and add sugar, lemon juice, and peeled, thinly sliced ginger. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Boil for at least 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.
Once the mixture has cooled, transfer it to a clean glass jar or bottle. Screw on a tight-fitting lid, and store in a cool, dark place for at least two months. After two months, the wine will be ready to drink. Enjoy!
We used howtomakewinefromgrapes.com to write this article about how to make dandelion wine. Click here to learn more.
