This Red Pepper Jelly is a delightful addition to any gathering, making it a perfect holiday appetizer or gift idea. Its vibrant color and sweet-spicy flavor profile will impress your guests while being easy to prepare. Serve it over cream cheese with crunchy crackers for an irresistible treat that suits various occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy it as an appetizer, a gift, or even a condiment for sandwiches and meats.
- Flavorful Balance: The combination of sweet red peppers and spicy jalapeños creates a delicious contrast that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Homemade Touch: There’s something special about making your own jelly. It adds a personal touch to gifts or gatherings.
- Great for Canning: This recipe is perfect for canning, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of summer all year long.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into creating this vibrant jelly, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Canning jars
- Canning lids
- Large saucepan
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
- Hot water canner
Importance of Each Tool
- Canning jars: These are crucial for preserving your jelly while keeping it fresh.
- Large saucepan: A spacious pan ensures even cooking by allowing ample space for boiling ingredients.
- Hot water canner: This tool is essential for processing your jars safely and effectively.
Ingredients
To create this flavorful Red Pepper Jelly, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Jelly
- 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. While doing this, heat your water in a hot water canner for processing.
Step 2: Cook the 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 this mixture to a rolling boil while stirring constantly.
Step 3: Add Sugar
Once boiling, quickly stir in the white sugar. Return to a rolling boil and let it boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and skim off any foam on top.
Step 4: Fill the Jars
Ladle the jelly into your prepared jars, filling each one to about 1/4 inch from the top. Cover them with flat lids and screw on the bands tightly.
Step 5: Process the Jars
Place the jars into the canning rack, then slowly lower them into the canner. Ensure that hot water covers the jars completely but is not boiling yet. Bring it to a boil and process for five minutes.
Step 6: Cool Down
Carefully remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool completely on a clean surface.
Step 7: Serve Your Appetizer
To enjoy your Red Pepper Jelly appetizer, place a block of cream cheese on a plate. Spoon generous amounts of jelly over it and serve with crackers for dipping.
This Red Pepper Jelly recipe is sure to become a favorite at parties or as a thoughtful homemade gift!
How to Serve Red Pepper Jelly
Red Pepper Jelly is a versatile treat that adds a burst of flavor to various dishes. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this sweet and spicy jelly.
Over Cream Cheese
- Spread a block of cream cheese on a serving plate and spoon the Red Pepper Jelly generously on top. This classic pairing is perfect for gatherings.
With Crackers
- Serve the cream cheese and jelly combination with an assortment of crackers. The crisp texture complements the smoothness of the cream cheese and the sweetness of the jelly.
As a Glaze for Grilled Meats
- Brush Red Pepper Jelly over grilled chicken or turkey for a sweet glaze that enhances the flavor of your main dish.
In Sandwiches
- Use Red Pepper Jelly as a spread in turkey or chicken sandwiches. It adds moisture and flavor, making your sandwich more exciting.
Mixed into Salads
- Drizzle Red Pepper Jelly over mixed greens or coleslaw for a unique dressing that brings a sweet heat to your salads.
On Charcuterie Boards
- Include Red Pepper Jelly on your charcuterie board alongside cheeses, meats, nuts, and fruits. Its vibrant color and flavor will attract guests’ attention.
How to Perfect Red Pepper Jelly
Creating the perfect Red Pepper Jelly requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your jelly turns out great every time.
- Use fresh peppers: Freshly chopped red, green, and jalapeño peppers enhance the flavor and texture of your jelly.
- Measure accurately: Precision in measuring ingredients, especially sugar and pectin, is key to achieving the right consistency.
- Stir constantly: When boiling the mixture, stirring continuously helps prevent burning and ensures even cooking.
- Skim foam: Removing foam after boiling not only improves aesthetics but also contributes to better preservation.
- Check seals: After processing, make sure each jar has sealed properly by pressing down on the center of the lid; it should not pop back.
- Store in a cool place: Keep your jars in a cool, dark area to prolong shelf life and maintain quality.
Best Side Dishes for Red Pepper Jelly
Red Pepper Jelly pairs well with several side dishes that elevate its flavor even further. Here’s a list of scrumptious sides you can serve alongside.
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil; grilled until tender.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty complement to sweet jelly.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw with cabbage and carrots balances out the sweetness of the jelly.
- Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to rich appetizers.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese or breadcrumbs offer an earthy balance to sweet flavors.
- Cornbread Muffins: Moist cornbread muffins add warmth; they can be served with butter or enjoyed plain alongside jelly.
- Baked Brie Cheese: A warm brie topped with nuts or fruit pairs beautifully with Red Pepper Jelly for an indulgent side option.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad with herbs and vegetables provides protein while complementing the jelly’s sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Red Pepper Jelly is simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.
- Using the wrong type of peppers: Not all peppers are created equal. Ensure you choose fresh, vibrant red and green bell peppers for the best flavor.
- Skipping jar sterilization: Failing to properly sterilize your jars can lead to spoilage. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sterilizing jars before canning.
- Not boiling long enough: Boiling the mixture for too short a time prevents proper gelling. Make sure to boil it for at least 2-3 minutes after adding the sugar.
- Overfilling jars: Filling jars too full can cause jelly to spill out during processing. Leave at least 1/4 inch of space at the top of each jar.
- Ignoring cooling time: Removing jars from the canner too quickly can affect sealing. Allow them to cool completely in a draft-free area.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers.
- The jelly will last for up to 1 month in the refrigerator once opened.
Freezing Red Pepper Jelly
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 1 year without affecting taste and texture.
Reheating Red Pepper Jelly
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm jelly in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
- Microwave: Place jelly in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until melted and heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and using Red Pepper Jelly.
What is Red Pepper Jelly?
Red Pepper Jelly is a sweet and spicy spread made from bell peppers, sugar, and pectin. It’s perfect as an appetizer or condiment.
How can I use Red Pepper Jelly?
You can serve it over cream cheese with crackers, use it in marinades, or incorporate it into sauces for added flavor.
Can I adjust the spice level in my Red Pepper Jelly?
Yes! You can increase or decrease the amount of jalapeño pepper based on your heat preference.
How long does homemade Red Pepper Jelly last?
Homemade Red Pepper Jelly lasts about 1 month in the refrigerator once opened but can be frozen for up to 1 year if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
This Red Pepper Jelly recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes an excellent holiday appetizer that you can customize by adjusting spice levels or pairing with different cheeses. Try making this delightful treat today!
Red Pepper Jelly
Elevate your gatherings with this delightful Red Pepper Jelly, a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors that will impress any guest. This vibrant jelly is easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. Serve it over cream cheese with crunchy crackers for a classic appetizer, or use it as a unique condiment for grilled meats or sandwiches. Whether you’re looking to create an unforgettable dish for a holiday party or searching for the perfect homemade gift, this Red Pepper Jelly is sure to be a hit!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 48 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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
- 5 cups white sugar
- 1 1/2 packages SURE-JELL powder pectin
Instructions
- Sterilize six 8-ounce canning jars and lids according to instructions.
- In a large saucepan, combine red and green bell peppers, jalapeño, apple cider vinegar, and pectin. Bring to a rolling boil while stirring constantly.
- Quickly add the sugar, return to a rolling boil, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Ladle the jelly into prepared jars, filling each about 1/4 inch from the top. Seal with lids.
- Process jars in a hot water canner for five minutes.
- Allow the jars to cool completely before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg