How to Make Jalapeno Jelly: A Spicy and Delicious Recipe
Jalapeno jelly is a popular condiment made from jalapeno peppers, sugar, and pectin. It’s a great addition to any meal, adding a spicy kick and a sweet flavor. Making jalapeno jelly is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic canning equipment. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making jalapeno jelly, from preparing the ingredients to canning the finished product.
Gathering Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start making jalapeno jelly, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients and equipment:
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups of jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 package of pectin (optional)
- Equipment:
- Large pot
- Strainer or food mill
- Glass jars with lids and bands for canning
- Canning funnel
- Acid tester (optional)
Preparing the Jalapeno Peppers
To make jalapeno jelly, you’ll need to prepare the jalapeno peppers by seeding and chopping them. Here’s how:
- Seeding the Jalapenos: Cut off the stems of the jalapeno peppers and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes from each pepper half, and chop them into small pieces.
- Chopping the Jalapenos: Place the chopped jalapenos in a food processor or blender and process until they’re finely chopped.
Making the Jalapeno Jelly
Now that you’ve prepared the jalapeno peppers, it’s time to make the jelly. Here’s the process:
- Combine the Jalapenos and Sugar: In a large pot, combine the chopped jalapenos, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
- Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce Heat and Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are soft and the mixture has thickened.
- Strain the Mixture: Use a strainer or food mill to remove the jalapeno pieces from the mixture. Discard the solids.
- Add Pectin (Optional): If you want to make a firmer jelly, you can add a package of pectin to the mixture. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct amount to add.
- Boil and Set: Bring the mixture to a boil again, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the jelly has thickened and passed the water test.
Canning the Jalapeno Jelly
Once the jelly has thickened, it’s time to can it. Here’s how:
- Prepare the Jars: Wash the glass jars and lids in hot soapy water, and rinse thoroughly. Sterilize the jars and lids in a pot of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Fill the Jars: Use a canning funnel to fill the hot, sterilized jars with the jalapeno jelly, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Seal the Jars: Place the sterilized lids and bands on the jars, and screw them shut tightly.
- Process the Jars: Place the jars in a pot of boiling water, making sure they’re covered by at least 1 inch of water. Process the jars for 5-10 minutes, or until the jelly has set and the jars are sealed.
- Let the Jars Cool: Remove the jars from the pot and let them cool to room temperature, undisturbed, for 12-24 hours.
- Check the Seals: Check the seals of the jars by pressing on the top of each lid. If the lid does not move and the seal is tight, the jar is sealed properly.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to keep in mind when making jalapeno jelly:
- Adjust the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder jelly, you can use only half of the jalapenos or substitute in some milder peppers. If you prefer a spicier jelly, you can use more jalapenos or add in some hotter peppers like habaneros.
- Add Flavorings: You can add flavorings like garlic, onion, or citrus zest to the jelly for added depth of flavor.
- Use Different Types of Peppers: You can use different types of peppers, such as Anaheim or Poblano, to create different flavor profiles.
- Make a Smaller Batch: If you don’t want to make a large batch of jelly, you can reduce the recipe by half or quarter and make a smaller batch.
Conclusion
Making jalapeno jelly is a fun and rewarding process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic canning equipment. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and spicy condiment that’s perfect for topping toast, using as a glaze for meats, or adding to sauces and marinades. With its bold flavor and spicy kick, jalapeno jelly is sure to become a favorite in your household.