Are you ready to experience the magic of homemade elderberry jelly? This vibrant, jewel-toned spread is not only incredibly delicious but also boasts a wealth of health benefits. Forget store-bought jellies packed with artificial ingredients; this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients and the power of Certo liquid pectin for a quick and easy process. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, this recipe is your ticket to creating a truly special homemade treat. Whether you're searching for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, or simply want to explore the world of homemade cooking, this elderberry jelly is a delicious and satisfying choice. It's also a fantastic addition to your healthy meals, adding a sweet and tangy twist to everything from toast to cheese boards.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups elderberry juice (see note below for making your own)
- 7 cups sugar
- 1 box (1 ¾ oz) powdered Certo liquid pectin
Note: For making elderberry juice, you'll need approximately 4 cups of ripe elderberries. Wash the berries thoroughly, then simmer them in a small amount of water until softened. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to extract the juice. You can discard the pulp or save it for other uses.
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Canning jars and lids (if preserving)
- Jar lifter (optional, but helpful)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Jars
If you plan to can your elderberry jelly, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Keep them hot until ready to use. This ensures a safe and long-lasting shelf life for your delicious creation.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your large saucepan, combine the elderberry juice and powdered pectin. Stir well to ensure no clumps remain.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly. This is crucial for the proper setting of the jelly. A rolling boil means a continuous, vigorous boil that cannot be stopped by stirring.
Step 4: Add Sugar
Once at a rolling boil, stir in the sugar all at once. Continue to stir vigorously and consistently.
Step 5: Boil for One Minute
Return the mixture to a rolling boil and boil hard for exactly one minute, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Timing is key here!
Step 6: Remove from Heat and Skim
Remove the saucepan from the heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface.
Step 7: Fill Jars
Carefully ladle the hot jelly into your prepared jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean.
Step 8: Seal and Process (if canning)
Place the lids and rings on the jars, tightening them fingertip tight. If canning, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. After processing, remove the jars and let them cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe, high-quality elderberries for the best flavor.
- Make sure to achieve a true rolling boil – this is essential for setting.
- Stir constantly throughout the entire process to avoid burning.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control, though it's not strictly necessary.
- If you don't plan on canning, store the jelly in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Variations:
- Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Incorporate spices like cinnamon or cloves for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Experiment with different sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup (adjust the amount accordingly).
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information will vary depending on the amount of sugar used. A typical serving will contain a moderate amount of sugar and provide antioxidants from the elderberries. For precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This homemade elderberry jelly is a fantastic addition to your pantry. It's a delicious treat, a beautiful gift, and a testament to the joy of homemade cooking. Enjoy!