John Washington
Mexican Jalapeño Jelly: A Spicy-Sweet Treat to Savor
Mexican Jalapeño Jelly is a zesty condiment that brilliantly balances the heat of jalapeños with the sweetness of sugar. Perfect with cream cheese on crackers, as a glaze for meats, or even added to sandwiches for an extra kick, this jelly is a versatile addition to your pantry.
Ingredients
– 10-12 medium jalapeño peppers
– 1 green bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
– 6 cups sugar
– 2 cups apple cider vinegar
– 1 pouch (3 ounces) liquid fruit pectin
Instructions
1. Prepare the Peppers: Begin by wearing gloves to handle the jalapeños. Chop the jalapeños and bell peppers finely, removing the seeds if you prefer a milder jelly. If you like more heat, you can leave some seeds in.
2. Blend and Boil: Place the chopped peppers in a food processor or blender and pulse until finely minced. In a large pot, combine the minced peppers, vinegar, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
3. Cook the Jelly: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture doesn’t stick to the pot.
4. Add the Pectin: After simmering, increase the heat and bring the mixture back to a rolling boil. Stir in the liquid pectin and continue boiling for 1-2 minutes.
5. Test the Set: To test if the jelly is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it sets up and wrinkles when you push it, it’s ready. If not, continue boiling for another minute and retest.
6. Jar the Jelly: Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean and place the lids on tightly. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they seal properly.
7. Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a towel or rack. Once they are cooled, check the lids for a proper seal. Store the jelly in a cool, dark place and refrigerate after opening.
8. Enjoy!: Serve this delightful Mexican Jalapeño Jelly with your favorite dishes. It pairs excellently with cream cheese and crackers, grilled meats, or as a unique spread on sandwiches.
This spicy-sweet jelly will add a flavorful twist to any dish, impressing your guests and family with its vibrant taste profile.
