Red Pepper Jelly

This Red Pepper Jelly is a delightful spread that brings a burst of flavor to any occasion. Perfect as a holiday appetizer, it’s a fantastic addition to gatherings, and its vibrant color makes it visually appealing. Serve it over cream cheese with crackers for a simple yet elegant treat. Not only does it taste great, but it also makes for a thoughtful gift idea, showcasing your culinary skills.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills and uses common ingredients, making it accessible to everyone.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy this jelly on crackers, with cheese, or as a glaze for meats. Its sweet and spicy flavor complements many dishes.
• Great for Gifting: Package this jelly in decorative jars for a homemade gift that friends and family will love.
• Vibrant Flavor: The combination of red and green peppers with jalapeños creates an exciting flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual gathering, this appetizer fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Red Pepper Jelly, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (8-ounce)
• Canner or large pot
• Large saucepan
• Ladle
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for storing your jelly safely while preserving its freshness.
• Canner or large pot: Provides even heat distribution when boiling the jars, ensuring proper sealing.
• Ladle: Makes transferring the hot jelly into jars easier and helps prevent spills.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Red Pepper Jelly, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Bell Peppers

• 3 cups finely chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño pepper

Vinegar and Pectin

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 1/2 (1.75 ounce each) packages SURE-JELL powder pectin

Sweetener

• 5 cups white sugar

Serving Items

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

Step 3: 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 4: Process Jars

Place the jars into the canning rack, and slowly lower them into the canner. The water should cover the jars completely but should not be boiling. Bring water to a boil and process for five minutes.

Step 5: Cool Jars

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

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade Red Pepper Jelly at your next gathering!

How to Serve Red Pepper Jelly

Red Pepper Jelly is a versatile and flavorful appetizer that can elevate any gathering. It pairs well with various accompaniments, making it an excellent choice for holiday parties or casual get-togethers.

Cream Cheese Delight

• Spread the jelly over a block of cream cheese for a simple yet elegant appetizer. Serve with assorted crackers for a delightful crunch.

Glazed Chicken

• Use Red Pepper Jelly as a glaze for grilled or baked chicken. Brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and spicy finish.

Charcuterie Boards

• Add Red Pepper Jelly to your charcuterie board as a sweet contrast to savory meats and cheeses. It enhances flavors while providing visual appeal.

Salad Dressing

• Mix Red Pepper Jelly with olive oil and vinegar to create a zesty salad dressing. Drizzle over mixed greens for an extra kick.

Breakfast Toast

• Spread the jelly on toasted bread or bagels. Top with cream cheese or ricotta for a delicious breakfast option.

How to Perfect Red Pepper Jelly

Creating the perfect Red Pepper Jelly requires attention to detail and careful execution. Follow these tips to ensure your jelly turns out great every time.

• Choose Fresh Peppers: Select vibrant, firm bell peppers for the best flavor and texture in your jelly.
• Use Right Measurements: Accurate measurements of sugar and pectin are crucial for achieving the desired consistency.
• Boil Properly: Make sure to bring your mixture to a rolling boil before adding sugar to activate the pectin effectively.
• Skim Foam: Removing foam from the top before canning helps improve the appearance and texture of your jelly.
• Cool Completely: Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature after processing; this helps seal them properly.

Best Side Dishes for Red Pepper Jelly

When serving Red Pepper Jelly, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, and goat cheese, create delicious pairings with the sweetness of the jelly.
2. Vegetable Crudités: Fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers add crunch and freshness that balance out the jelly’s sweetness.
3. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinate shrimp in lime juice and grill them for a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet heat of Red Pepper Jelly.
4. Stuffed Mini Peppers: Fill mini bell peppers with cream cheese or goat cheese for colorful bites that complement the jelly’s flavors.
5. Savory Scones: Bake savory scones with herbs and cheese; they make an excellent base for spreading Red Pepper Jelly.
6. Roasted Nuts: A mix of spicy roasted nuts offers a crunchy contrast that enhances your snacking experience alongside the jelly.
7. Pita Chips: Crispy pita chips provide a great vehicle for enjoying both cream cheese and Red Pepper Jelly together.
8. Quiche Bites: Mini quiches filled with vegetables or cheese pair well with the sweet-spicy notes of the jelly, making them perfect appetizers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red Pepper Jelly can be easy, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping sterilization: Not sterilizing jars can lead to spoilage. Always sterilize your jars and lids before use.
• Incorrect pectin measurement: Using too much or too little pectin affects the jelly’s texture. Follow the recipe instructions carefully.
• Not bringing to a rolling boil: Failing to achieve a rolling boil when cooking can prevent proper gelling. Ensure the mixture boils vigorously before adding sugar.
• Overfilling jars: Filling jars too full can cause overflow during processing. Leave about 1/4 inch space at the top of each jar.
• Ignoring cooling time: Not allowing jars to cool fully can compromise seals. Let them sit undisturbed until completely cool.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers or sealed jars.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Freezing Red Pepper Jelly

• Use freezer-safe containers or jars for storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 1 year.

Reheating Red Pepper Jelly

• Oven: Place jelly in an oven-safe dish and heat at low temperature until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until desired warmth is reached.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Red Pepper Jelly.

How do I know if my Red Pepper Jelly has set properly?

You can test the set by placing a small amount on a cold plate and running your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready!

Can I use different types of peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various peppers for different flavors and heat levels.

What can I serve with Red Pepper Jelly?

Red Pepper Jelly pairs well with cream cheese and crackers, but you can also use it as a glaze for meats or in sandwiches.

How long does homemade Red Pepper Jelly last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 3 months. Frozen jelly can last up to a year.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

You can increase the amount of jalapeño pepper or add other hot peppers to enhance the heat according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Red Pepper Jelly recipe is not only delightful but also versatile, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful gifts. Feel free to customize it by adjusting the spice level or adding other ingredients like herbs for unique flavors. Try making this scrumptious treat and enjoy its sweet and spicy charm!