Red Pepper Jelly

This Red Pepper Jelly is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a unique gift, this jelly is sure to impress. Its vibrant colors and delicious taste make it a standout appetizer when served over cream cheese with crackers. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will elevate your culinary repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this delicious jelly in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet red bell peppers and spicy jalapeños creates a unique flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as an appetizer, a condiment for meats, or even as a spread on sandwiches.
• Gift-Worthy: Homemade jelly makes for a thoughtful gift during holidays or special occasions.
• Beautiful Presentation: Its vibrant color adds visual appeal to any table setting, making it great for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Red Pepper Jelly, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (8-ounce)
• Hot water canner
• Large saucepan
• Ladle
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for storing your jelly safely and keeping it fresh.
• Hot water canner: This tool helps in processing the jars evenly, ensuring proper sealing.
• Large saucepan: Needed to combine all ingredients thoroughly while allowing enough space to boil.
• Ladle: Perfect for transferring the hot jelly into jars without spills.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Red Pepper Jelly:

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

To Serve

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 box crackers

How to Make Red Pepper Jelly

Step 1: Prepare the Jars

Begin by sterilizing six 8-ounce canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Start heating 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 the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring constantly. Quickly stir in the sugar, return to a rolling boil, and boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and skim off any foam.

Step 3: Fill the Jars

Quickly ladle the jelly into your prepared jars, filling each to 1/4 inch from the top. Cover with flat lids; then screw on the bands tightly.

Step 4: Process the Jars

Place the jars into the canning rack and slowly lower them into the canner. Ensure that the water covers the jars completely; it should be hot but not boiling. Bring water to a boil and process for five minutes.

Step 5: Cool Down

Remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 6: Serve Your Appetizer

To serve your Red Pepper Jelly appetizer simply, place a block of cream cheese on a plate. Spoon the red pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese and serve with crackers.

Enjoy your homemade Red Pepper Jelly, perfect as an appetizer or gift!

How to Serve Red Pepper Jelly

Red Pepper Jelly is a versatile dish that can enhance any gathering. Its sweet and spicy flavor pairs well with various foods, making it an excellent choice for holiday appetizers or casual snacks.

Over Cream Cheese

• Spread a block of cream cheese on a serving plate and top with a generous layer of red pepper jelly. Serve with an assortment of crackers for dipping.

As a Glaze

• Use red pepper jelly as a glaze for grilled chicken or turkey. Brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor and a shiny finish.

With Cheese Platter

• Include red pepper jelly on your cheese board. It complements sharp cheeses like cheddar or creamy cheeses like brie, providing a delightful contrast.

In Sandwiches

• Add red pepper jelly to sandwiches or wraps for an unexpected kick. It pairs wonderfully with turkey or chicken, enhancing the overall taste.

As a Marinade

• Mix red pepper jelly with olive oil and vinegar to create a flavorful marinade for meats. This will add depth to your dishes before grilling or roasting.

Gift Idea

• Jarred red pepper jelly makes a thoughtful homemade gift. Decorate the jar with ribbons and labels for a personal touch when gifting to friends or family.

How to Perfect Red Pepper Jelly

Making perfect red pepper jelly is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips to ensure your jelly turns out great every time.

• Use fresh peppers – Freshly chopped peppers provide better flavor and texture than pre-packaged options.
• Measure ingredients accurately – Precision in measuring pectin, sugar, and vinegar will ensure optimal gelling.
• Keep stirring – Stir constantly while heating your mixture to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Check the setting point – Perform the spoon test by dripping some jelly onto a chilled plate; if it holds its shape, it’s ready to be jarred.
• Cool jars properly – Allow jars to cool at room temperature after processing to achieve proper sealing.
• Store in a dark place – Keep sealed jars in a cool, dark area to maintain freshness and flavor over time.

Best Side Dishes for Red Pepper Jelly

Pairing side dishes with your red pepper jelly can elevate its flavors even more. Here are some tasty options that complement this delightful appetizer.

1. Vegetable Crudités – Fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers add crunch and freshness alongside the sweetness of the jelly.
2. Cheese Quesadillas – Warm quesadillas filled with cheese create a savory pairing that balances the sweet heat of the red pepper jelly.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Tender chicken skewers seasoned with herbs pair beautifully with the fruity notes of the jelly.
4. Stuffed Mini Peppers – Mini bell peppers stuffed with cream cheese or feta offer both color and flavor that matches well with red pepper jelly.
5. Savory Scones – Flaky scones infused with herbs provide a delicious contrast when topped with red pepper jelly.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add texture and warmth while complementing the spicy-sweet profile of the jelly.
7. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes drizzled lightly with olive oil make an excellent side dish that contrasts nicely with the jelly’s sweetness.
8. Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad featuring mixed greens tossed in vinaigrette enhances the overall experience when served alongside red pepper jelly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Pepper Jelly, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring sterilization: Failing to sterilize your jars can lead to spoilage. Ensure you follow proper sterilization methods before filling them with jelly.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect amounts of peppers or sugar can affect the consistency and flavor. Use precise measurements for best results.
• Skipping the boiling step: If you don’t bring the mixture to a rolling boil, the jelly may not set properly. Make sure to boil for at least 2-3 minutes after adding sugar.
• Overfilling jars: Filling jars too close to the top can cause overflow during processing. Leave a 1/4 inch headspace in each jar.
• Neglecting cooling time: Removing jars too soon from the canner may lead to poor sealing. Allow jars to cool completely before handling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Red Pepper Jelly in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to one month.

Freezing Red Pepper Jelly

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The jelly can be frozen for up to six months.

Reheating Red Pepper Jelly

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the jelly in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring between intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place jelly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Red Pepper Jelly that might help you:

What is Red Pepper Jelly?

Red Pepper Jelly is a sweet and spicy condiment made from bell peppers, vinegar, and sugar, perfect for appetizers or as a spread.

How do I know if my jelly has set correctly?

If it holds its shape when spooned out of the jar and is firm but spreadable, it has set correctly.

Can I customize my Red Pepper Jelly recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust the types of peppers used or add spices like garlic or onion for added flavor.

How long does homemade Red Pepper Jelly last?

Homemade Red Pepper Jelly lasts about one month in the refrigerator and up to six months when frozen.

Can I use other types of peppers?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different sweet or hot peppers based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Red Pepper Jelly recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it an excellent appetizer choice. Its versatility means you can customize it with various peppers or spices. Try this recipe today and impress your guests with a unique twist on traditional jelly!