Red Pepper Jelly

This Red Pepper Jelly is a vibrant and flavorful addition to your holiday table. Its sweet and spicy profile makes it perfect for serving over cream cheese with crackers, making it an ideal appetizer for gatherings. Not only is it simple to make, but it also makes for a delightful homemade gift. Impress your friends and family with this unique treat that celebrates the bold flavors of fresh peppers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create this delicious jelly in under an hour.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as an appetizer, spread, or gift, this jelly fits various occasions and culinary needs.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet red peppers and spicy jalapeños gives this jelly a unique flavor that’s sure to impress.
• Great for Gifting: Packaged beautifully, this jelly makes an excellent homemade gift for holidays or special events.
• Preserves Freshness: Canning the jelly allows you to enjoy the taste of summer peppers all year round.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Red Pepper Jelly successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. These help streamline the process and ensure that your results are top-notch.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (8-ounce)
• Canning lids
• Large saucepan
• Canning rack
• Hot water canner
• Measuring cups
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for storing your jelly safely while maintaining freshness.
• Large saucepan: Provides enough space for cooking all the ingredients evenly.
• Hot water canner: Ensures proper sterilization of jars during the canning process.

Ingredients

To make 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: Prepare Your Jars

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

Step 2: Cook Your Peppers

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 Your 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 Your Jars

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

Step 5: Cool Down

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

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy making this delightful Red Pepper Jelly! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a thoughtful gift.

How to Serve Red Pepper Jelly

Red Pepper Jelly is a versatile and vibrant appetizer that adds a burst of flavor to any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful jelly.

Cream Cheese Delight

• Spread the Red Pepper Jelly over a block of cream cheese for a classic appetizer. Serve with your favorite crackers for an easy yet impressive dish.

Charcuterie Board Accent

• Use Red Pepper Jelly as a sweet contrast on a charcuterie board. Pair it with cheeses, nuts, and fruits for a well-rounded flavor experience.

Glaze for Grilled Meats

• Brush Red Pepper Jelly over grilled chicken or turkey for a sweet and spicy glaze. It adds depth and enhances the overall taste of your protein.

Sandwich Spread

• Incorporate Red Pepper Jelly into sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, or even vegetables, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Salad Dressing

• Mix Red Pepper Jelly with olive oil and vinegar to create a unique salad dressing. It adds sweetness and spice to green salads or grain bowls.

Gift Idea

• Package Red Pepper Jelly in decorative jars as homemade gifts. It’s perfect for holidays or special occasions, bringing joy to friends and family.

How to Perfect Red Pepper Jelly

Creating the perfect Red Pepper Jelly requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these guidelines for the best results.

• Choose fresh peppers: Select vibrant bell peppers for optimal flavor and color. Fresh produce will enhance the taste of your jelly.

• Measure accurately: Ensure you measure both sugar and vinegar precisely. Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right consistency.

• Stir constantly: While boiling, stir the mixture continuously. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.

• Test consistency: Before canning, test the jelly’s consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it holds its shape after cooling, it’s ready.

• Cool completely: Allow jars to cool at room temperature before storing them. This helps create a proper seal which extends shelf life.

• Store properly: Keep your sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Proper storage maintains freshness for longer periods.

Best Side Dishes for Red Pepper Jelly

Pairing side dishes with Red Pepper Jelly can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its sweet and spicy notes.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide earthy flavors that balance the sweetness of the jelly.

2. Garlic Bread: The crunchiness of garlic bread pairs well with the jelly’s texture, making it an ideal accompaniment.

3. Stuffed Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa bring complementary flavors that enhance the jelly’s profile.

4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and herbs creates a fresh contrast that works wonderfully with Red Pepper Jelly.

5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs offers a refreshing side that harmonizes beautifully with the jelly’s taste.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides variety; sharp cheeses contrast nicely against the sweetness of the jelly.

7. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor from grilled asparagus complements the fruity notes in the jelly perfectly.

8. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add another layer of sweetness that pairs well with the vibrant flavors of Red Pepper Jelly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Ignoring jar sterilization: Failing to properly sterilize jars can lead to spoilage. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sterilizing canning jars.
• Not using enough pectin: Using insufficient pectin may result in a jelly that is too runny. Ensure you measure out the correct amount as specified in the recipe.
• Overcooking the mixture: Boiling the jelly for too long can change its texture and flavor. Keep a close eye on the time once it reaches a rolling boil.
• Skipping foam removal: Not skimming off foam can make your jelly look unappealing. Always remove any foam before ladling into jars for a clear finish.
• Improper cooling of jars: Allowing jars to cool too quickly or not letting them cool completely can compromise their seal. Let them cool at room temperature undisturbed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Red Pepper Jelly in airtight containers.
• It will last up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator after opening.

Freezing Red Pepper Jelly

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for longer storage.
• It can last up to 6 months in the freezer.

Reheating Red Pepper Jelly

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm jelly covered in a baking dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until warm. Start with 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring until melted, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Red Pepper Jelly?

Red Pepper Jelly is a sweet and spicy jelly made from red bell peppers, which is perfect as a spread or condiment.

How do I use Red Pepper Jelly?

You can use Red Pepper Jelly as an appetizer over cream cheese, as a glaze for meats, or even in sandwiches.

Can I customize my Red Pepper Jelly?

Yes! You can adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños or mix different types of peppers for unique flavors.

How long does homemade Red Pepper Jelly last?

Homemade Red Pepper Jelly lasts up to three weeks in the refrigerator and up to six months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

This Red Pepper Jelly recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that makes it perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift. Its versatility allows you to adapt it by varying pepper types or spice levels according to your taste preferences. Give this easy recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!