Pepper jelly is a versatile condiment that can add a sweet and spicy kick to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re spreading it on crackers, mixing it into marinades, or using it as a glaze for meats, pepper jelly is sure to elevate the flavors of your meals. Making your own pepper jelly at home is easier than you might think and allows you to customize the heat level and sweetness to your liking. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of making delicious pepper jelly from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of finely chopped peppers (such as jalapenos, bell peppers, or a mix of both)
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 package of powdered pectin
- 5 cups of sugar
- Green food coloring (optional)
Equipment:
- Canning jars
- Canning pot or large stockpot
- Canning rack
- Canning tongs
- Candy thermometer
- Ladle
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Wear gloves while handling hot peppers to avoid skin irritation. Wash and chop the peppers into fine pieces, removing the seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder jelly.
Step 2: Cook the Peppers
- In a large saucepan, combine the chopped peppers and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until the peppers are softened.
Step 3: Add Pectin and Sugar
- Stir in the powdered pectin and bring the mixture back to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Add the sugar gradually, stirring until it is fully dissolved.
Step 4: Cook and Test for Doneness
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and boil the mixture until it reaches 220°F, stirring frequently.
- To test for doneness, spoon a small amount of the jelly onto a chilled plate. If it sets and wrinkles when touched, it’s ready.
Step 5: Fill and Seal Jars
- Ladle the hot pepper jelly into sterilized canning jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe the jar rims clean and secure the lids tightly.
Step 6: Process the Jars
- Place the filled jars on a canning rack in a canning pot or large stockpot. Ensure the jars are covered with at least 1 inch of water.
- Bring the water to a gentle boil and process the jars for 10 minutes.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Remove the jars from the water bath using canning tongs and let them cool on a towel-lined surface. As the jars cool, you may hear the lids popping, indicating a proper seal. Store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Tips for Making Pepper Jelly:
- Experiment with different types of peppers to achieve your desired level of heat.
- Add a touch of green food coloring to achieve a vibrant color in your jelly.
- Use a canning funnel to fill the jars neatly and avoid spills.
- Label the jars with the date of preparation for easy tracking of freshness.
With these simple steps and tips, you can create your own homemade pepper jelly that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. Get creative with your flavor combinations and enjoy the sweet and spicy goodness of pepper jelly in your favorite dishes!
