Red Pepper Jelly

This Red Pepper Jelly is a delightful treat that brightens up any gathering. Its sweet and spicy flavor makes it perfect for holiday appetizers or as a unique gift idea. Easy to prepare, this jelly pairs wonderfully with cream cheese and crackers, ensuring it will be a hit at your next event. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this jelly ready in no time.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or gift, it fits various occasions beautifully.
• Flavor Explosion: The mix of red, green, and jalapeño peppers creates a unique balance of sweetness and heat.
• Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and store for later use – perfect for busy holiday seasons.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Red Pepper Jelly, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (8-ounce)
• Hot water canner
• Large saucepan
• Ladle
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for storing your jelly safely while preserving its freshness.
• Hot water canner: Ensures proper sterilization and processing of your jars to prevent spoilage.
• Large saucepan: Allows enough space to combine ingredients and bring them to a boil without spilling.

Ingredients

For this delicious Red Pepper Jelly, gather the following ingredients:

For the Jelly Base

• 3 cups finely chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño pepper
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 1/2 (1.75 ounce each) packages SURE-JELL powder pectin
• 5 cups white sugar

For Serving

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 box crackers

How to Make Red Pepper Jelly

Step 1: Sterilize Jars

Begin by sterilizing six 8-ounce canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Begin heating your water in a hot water canner for processing.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

Place the red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and jalapeño peppers into a large saucepan over high heat. Mix in the apple cider vinegar and Sure-Jell pectin. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring constantly. Then, quickly stir in the sugar.

Step 3: Boil the Jelly

Return to a rolling boil and boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and skim off any foam.

Step 4: Fill Jars

Quickly ladle the jelly into your prepared jars, filling each to 1/4 inch from the top. Cover with flat lids; then screw on the bands tightly.

Step 5: Process Jars

Place the jars into the canning rack, slowly lowering them into the canner. Ensure that water completely covers the jars but is not boiling. Bring water to a boil and process for five minutes.

Step 6: Cool Down

Remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool completely.

Step 7: Serve Your Appetizer

To serve your Red Pepper Jelly appetizer, place a block of cream cheese on a plate. Spoon red pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese, then serve with crackers.

Now you’re ready to enjoy or gift this wonderful Red Pepper Jelly!

How to Serve Red Pepper Jelly

Red Pepper Jelly is a versatile appetizer that can add a burst of flavor to various dishes. Here are some delightful ways to serve this sweet and spicy jelly.

On Cream Cheese

• Spread cream cheese on a serving platter and top it with a generous scoop of Red Pepper Jelly. Serve with an assortment of crackers for a delightful combination.

With Grilled Meats

• Drizzle Red Pepper Jelly over grilled chicken or turkey for an extra layer of flavor. The sweetness complements the savory meat beautifully.

As a Glaze

• Use Red Pepper Jelly as a glaze for roasted vegetables. Toss the veggies in the jelly before roasting to enhance their natural flavors.

In Sandwiches

• Add Red Pepper Jelly to sandwiches for a sweet and spicy kick. It pairs well with turkey, chicken, or even veggie sandwiches.

With Cheese Plates

• Serve Red Pepper Jelly alongside assorted cheeses. It pairs wonderfully with sharp cheddar and creamy brie, adding contrast to each bite.

As a Dip

• Mix Red Pepper Jelly with cream cheese or yogurt for a quick dip. This is perfect for parties and gatherings, served with fresh veggies or chips.

How to Perfect Red Pepper Jelly

Making Red Pepper Jelly is simple, but these tips will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Peppers: Use vibrant, fresh red and green bell peppers for the best color and taste in your jelly.
• Measure Accurately: Ensure precise measurements of sugar and pectin as they are crucial for setting the jelly correctly.
• Maintain Constant Stirring: Stir constantly during boiling to prevent burning and ensure even distribution of ingredients.
• Skim Off Foam: Always skim off any foam after cooking; this keeps your jelly clear and visually appealing.
• Cool Jars Completely: Allow jars to cool completely before storing them to avoid condensation inside the jars, which affects shelf life.
• Store Properly: Keep your sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Red Pepper Jelly

Pairing side dishes with Red Pepper Jelly can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Marinate seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers, then grill them until tender.
2. Cheese Board: Create an array of cheeses like goat cheese or aged cheddar paired with nuts and fruits.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Fill mushroom caps with herbed cream cheese, bake until golden, then serve warm.
4. Crispy Potato Wedges: Season potato wedges with herbs and bake until crispy; they make an excellent vehicle for the jelly.
5. Caprese Salad Skewers: Assemble cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze for freshness.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Bake cornbread muffins as a side; they pair nicely with the sweet heat of Red Pepper Jelly.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss diced sweet potatoes in olive oil and roast until caramelized—the sweetness balances the jelly’s spice.
8. Quinoa Salad: Combine quinoa with diced vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette; it’s refreshing alongside rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red Pepper Jelly can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using unripe peppers – Unripe peppers can lead to a bitter taste in your jelly. Always choose ripe, vibrant red and green bell peppers for the best flavor.
• Skipping sterilization – Failing to properly sterilize jars can cause spoilage. Always sterilize jars and lids before filling with jelly to ensure safety.
• Not measuring accurately – Inaccurate measurements can ruin the texture of your jelly. Use precise measurements for sugar and pectin to get the right consistency.
• Ignoring boiling times – Over or under-boiling can affect the gelling process. Follow the recipe’s boiling time closely to achieve the desired jelly texture.
• Not allowing cooling time – Removing jars too soon can result in leaking or improper sealing. Let your jars cool completely before moving them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Red Pepper Jelly in sealed jars in the refrigerator.
• It will last up to 1 month when properly stored.

Freezing Red Pepper Jelly

• You can freeze Red Pepper Jelly for long-term storage.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• It will maintain its quality for up to 1 year in the freezer.

Reheating Red Pepper Jelly

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm jelly in an oven-safe dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop – Place jelly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about Red Pepper Jelly.

What is Red Pepper Jelly?

Red Pepper Jelly is a sweet and spicy spread made from red and green bell peppers, sugar, and pectin. It’s perfect as an appetizer or condiment.

How do I serve Red Pepper Jelly?

You can serve it over cream cheese with crackers, use it as a glaze for meats, or pair it with cheeses on a charcuterie board.

Can I customize my Red Pepper Jelly?

Absolutely! You can adjust the level of heat by changing the amount of jalapeño pepper used or add other ingredients like herbs for added flavor.

How long does homemade Red Pepper Jelly last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, homemade Red Pepper Jelly lasts up to 1 month. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Red Pepper Jelly is not only a great holiday appetizer but also versatile enough for everyday use. Its sweet and spicy flavor profile pairs well with various dishes, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Don’t hesitate to customize it with different pepper varieties or spices according to your taste!

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Red Pepper Jelly

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 48 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant and flavorful experience of homemade Red Pepper Jelly, a delightful blend of sweet and spicy that adds a unique touch to any gathering. This easy-to-make jelly is perfect for topping cream cheese, glazing meats, or enhancing your favorite sandwiches. With its stunning color and versatile use, it makes a thoughtful gift idea or a festive addition to your holiday table. In just a few simple steps, you can create this gourmet treat that will impress your guests and elevate your culinary repertoire!

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups finely chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño pepper
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 5 cups white sugar
• 1 1/2 packages SURE-JELL powder pectin

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Instructions

1. Sterilize six 8-ounce canning jars and lids as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large saucepan, combine red bell peppers, green bell peppers, jalapeño pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Stir in the SURE-JELL pectin and bring to a rolling boil while stirring constantly.
3. Quickly add sugar and return to a boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and skim off foam.
4. Ladle jelly into jars up to 1/4 inch from the top. Seal with lids and screw on bands tightly.
5. Process jars in a hot water canner for five minutes, then cool completely before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Canning
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (16g)
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg