Are you ready to transform the vibrant flavors of summer into a deliciously sweet and tangy treat? This Strawberry Basil Jelly recipe is the perfect way to capture the essence of sunshine and fresh berries. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it an ideal project for both beginner and experienced cooks looking for quick dinner ideas or a delightful homemade addition to their pantry. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, and the result is a delicious dish you'll want to make again and again.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 6 ounces powdered pectin (follow package instructions for the amount needed)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Strawberry Mixture
Combine the sliced strawberries, water, and sugar in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Infusing Basil Flavor
Add the packed basil leaves to the boiling strawberry mixture. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it gently simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the basil to infuse its unique flavor into the jelly.
Step 3: Adding Pectin and Lemon Juice
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and powdered pectin vigorously. This step needs to be done quickly and thoroughly to ensure the jelly sets properly. Return the saucepan to medium heat.
Step 4: Achieving the Setting Point
Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil, stirring constantly for one full minute. This is crucial for activating the pectin and achieving the desired jelly consistency.
Step 5: Filling the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about ΒΌ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and seal with lids and rings.
Step 6: Processing the Jars (Optional)
For longer shelf life, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step is optional if you plan to consume the jelly within a few weeks and store it in the refrigerator.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe strawberries: Ripe strawberries will yield the best flavor and color for your jelly.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can lead to a tough jelly texture. Stick to the recommended simmering and boiling times.
- Sterilize your jars: This ensures a longer shelf life and prevents spoilage. You can sterilize jars by washing them in hot, soapy water, rinsing thoroughly, and then placing them in a hot oven for 10 minutes before filling.
- Check for setting point: If you're unsure if the jelly has reached the setting point, place a small spoonful onto a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it's ready.
Variations:
- Spicy Strawberry Basil Jelly: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the simmering mixture for a spicy kick.
- Strawberry Basil Ginger Jelly: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger along with the basil.
- Strawberry Basil Orange Jelly: Add the zest of one orange to the mixture for a citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the amount of jelly per serving but generally a serving provides a moderate source of antioxidants from strawberries and a small amount of carbohydrates and sugar. It is not a low-calorie food. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator based on your specific ingredient quantities and serving size.
This Strawberry Basil Jelly is a beautiful and delicious homemade treat perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or using as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet strawberries and fragrant basil!