Are you looking for a unique and delicious condiment to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This green bell pepper jelly recipe is surprisingly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavor, and perfect for adding a sweet and savory kick to everything from cheese boards to grilled meats. It’s a fantastic homemade cooking project that's both impressive and surprisingly quick. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, transforming ordinary ingredients into a delicious dish. It’s a quick dinner idea booster and one of the best recipes you'll ever try!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds green bell peppers, finely chopped
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) liquid pectin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Wash and finely chop the green bell peppers. The finer the chop, the smoother your jelly will be. Remove any seeds or membranes for a cleaner flavor.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped green bell peppers, white vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Once boiling, continue to stir vigorously.
Step 4: Add Pectin
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the liquid pectin. Stir continuously for one full minute to ensure the pectin is fully incorporated. This is crucial for the setting process.
Step 5: Cook to Setting Point
Continue to boil the mixture for one more minute, stirring constantly. You'll notice the mixture thickening slightly.
Step 6: Remove from Heat and Skim
Remove the pan from the heat and immediately skim off any foam that has formed on the surface.
Step 7: Canning (Optional)
If you wish to can your jelly for long-term storage, carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the jar rims clean, place lids and rings on the jars, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Step 8: Cooling and Setting
If not canning, pour the jelly into sterilized jars and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. The jelly will thicken as it cools. This process may take several hours.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe peppers: Ripe green bell peppers will provide the best flavor.
- Don't skip the stirring: Consistent stirring is vital for preventing burning and ensuring the pectin is fully activated.
- Sterilize your jars: If canning, sterilizing your jars properly is essential to prevent spoilage.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jelly, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup.
Variations:
- Spicy Pepper Jelly: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or other chili pepper for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Pepper Jelly: Roast the peppers before chopping for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Herb-infused Jelly: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Sugar: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Negligible
This green bell pepper jelly is a versatile and delicious condiment that's perfect for adding a unique flavor to your favorite dishes. Enjoy spreading it on crackers, using it as a glaze for meats, or incorporating it into sandwiches and salads. It's a wonderful addition to any cheese board and a truly impressive homemade creation. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, and a quick dinner idea solution that everyone will love!