Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to preserve the vibrant taste of elderberries? This homemade elderberry jelly recipe using Sure Jell is the perfect solution! It's a delightful blend of sweet and tart, offering a unique flavor profile that's perfect for spreading on toast, using as a glaze for meats, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. This recipe is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for beginner cooks and experienced home chefs alike. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade elderberry jelly!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups elderberry juice (approximately 4 cups of elderberries will yield about 4 cups of juice - see tips below for juicing instructions)
- 7 cups sugar
- 1 box (1 ¾ ounces) Sure Jell powdered pectin
- ½ cup water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Elderberry Juice:
- Wash and thoroughly clean 4 cups of elderberries. Remove any stems or leaves.
- There are several ways to extract the juice: you can use a juicer, a food mill, or simply simmer the berries with a little water until softened, then strain through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve. Press gently to extract as much juice as possible.
2. Prepare the Jelly:
- In a large saucepan, combine the elderberry juice and water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
- Add the Sure Jell and stir vigorously for one minute.
- Stir in the sugar and bring back to a rolling boil, continuing to stir constantly. This step is crucial to ensure the pectin properly gels. A rolling boil is a vigorous boil where bubbles constantly rise to the surface.
- Boil hard for one minute, stirring constantly.
3. Fill and Seal:
- Remove the pan from the heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface.
- Quickly ladle the hot jelly into sterilized half-pint jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean, ensuring no jelly residue remains.
- Place the lids and rings onto the jars and tighten to fingertip tightness.
4. Process the Jars (Optional but Recommended for Long-Term Storage):
* Process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust time based on your altitude – consult your Sure Jell box or a reliable canning guide for specific altitude adjustments).
* Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely. You should hear a popping sound as the jars seal.
Tips for Success:
- Using a Juicer: A juicer is the most efficient way to extract elderberry juice.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jelly, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup. Taste test the jelly during the cooking process and adjust to your liking.
- Storing your Jelly: Once cooled and sealed, your elderberry jelly should be stored in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Variations:
- Spiced Elderberry Jelly: Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during the boiling process for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Lemon Elderberry Jelly: Add the juice of one lemon along with the sugar for a brighter, more tart flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories (depending on sugar content)
- Sugar: High (due to the nature of jelly)
This elderberry jelly recipe is a fantastic addition to your homemade pantry. It's a healthy and delicious treat that showcases the unique flavor of elderberries. Enjoy the fruits of your labor! These easy recipes make wonderful gifts, too – share the deliciousness!