As the reduction in the number of bees the world over also reduces the amount of honey they create, here is a cheaper, yet very tasty, alternative to honey.

PARSLEY HONEY

5 oz Parsley (roughly chopped including stalks)

1 lb Sugar (more if you are using unrefined sugar)

1.5 pints water

1/2 tsp vinegar (distilled white vinegar is best)

Boil the water in a pan and then add the parsley. Continue to boil until the amount of liquid has reduced to one pint. At this point take the pan off the heat and strain the liquid into a container.

You are going to use the boiled liquid so discard the rest of the parsley, preferably on the compost heap. Place the strained liquid into a clean pan and add the sugar.

Boil this until the consistency is that of syrup. Then take off the boil, and add the vinegar. Don't worry that it is still rather liquid. Pour into jars, and let them cool overnight. The next morning the liquid will have gelled.

The flavour is similar to that of heather honey, but it is very delicate, whilst it leaves a lasting aftertaste. Very enjoyable, and cheap!