Imagine a jar of hot pepper jelly sitting on your kitchen counter, glistening like a fiery sunset, ready to awaken your taste buds with a sweet and spicy kick. This hot pepper jelly recipe combines the warmth of fresh peppers with a hint of sweetness, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Whether slathered on cream cheese with crackers or drizzled over grilled chicken, this zesty creation transforms any ordinary dish into an extraordinary experience.
Now, picture yourself at a summer barbecue, surrounded by friends and laughter. You present this vibrant pepper jelly as an appetizer; their eyes widen in anticipation before they take their first bite. The explosion of flavor leaves them clamoring for more, and you can’t help but beam with pride as compliments flow like the sweet nectar from your carefully crafted jar.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This hot pepper jelly recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect even for beginners
- The flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweet and spicy that pairs beautifully with various dishes
- Its vibrant color adds visual appeal to any meal or gathering
- You can customize the heat level based on your preferences for versatility in flavor
Sharing my hot pepper jelly at last year’s family reunion brought back unforgettable memories as everyone fought over the last cracker topped with that fiery goodness, leaving me both amused and proud.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Hot Peppers: Choose your favorite varieties; jalapeños give great heat while bell peppers add sweetness.
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Sugar: Regular granulated sugar balances the spice perfectly; consider using brown sugar for added depth.
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Apple Cider Vinegar: Opt for unfiltered vinegar for a slightly fruity undertone that enhances flavors.
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Pectin: Look for low-sugar pectin to ensure your jelly sets perfectly without being overly sweet.
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Water: Just plain water helps dissolve the sugar and mix everything together smoothly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Peppers: Start by washing your fresh hot peppers thoroughly. Remove the stems and finely chop them while wearing gloves to protect your hands from the heat.
Combine Ingredients in a Pot: In a large saucepan, combine chopped peppers, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir well until sugar dissolves completely before heating.
Bring to a Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Keep stirring occasionally until it reaches this stage; you want those vibrant colors to shine!
Add Pectin: Once boiling vigorously, add pectin while continuing to stir. Allow it to cook for about 1-2 minutes until fully dissolved and incorporated into the mixture.
Check Consistency: After cooking, remove the pot from heat and perform the spoon test—let some drop off a spoon; if it holds its shape well, you’re golden!
Jar It Up!: Pour your hot pepper jelly into sterilized jars while still warm. Seal them tightly and let cool at room temperature before refrigerating them for up to two weeks (if they last that long!).
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful concoction! Whether it’s paired with cheese at gatherings or enjoyed on a rainy afternoon toast, this hot pepper jelly will surely add zest to any occasion.
You Must Know
- Hot pepper jelly is not just a treat; it’s a versatile companion for meats, cheeses, and even desserts
- The vibrant colors and sweet heat create a perfect balance that will impress your guests and elevate any dish
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping your peppers finely to ensure even cooking. Cook them with sugar and vinegar until the mixture thickens, then add pectin for that perfect jelly consistency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different types of peppers! Jalapeños bring heat, while bell peppers add sweetness. Consider adding herbs or spices for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store hot pepper jelly in sterile jars in the refrigerator for up to a year. For serving, simply scoop out desired amounts; no reheating needed!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor balance, taste as you go
- Remember, the heat intensifies as it cooks
- Always use fresh ingredients to maximize flavor and maintain vibrant colors in your jelly
Sharing my first attempt at hot pepper jelly brings back memories of my friends’ confused yet intrigued faces when they tasted it. Their reactions made it all worthwhile!
FAQ
What types of peppers work best in a hot pepper jelly recipe?
Mix sweet and spicy peppers for an ideal flavor balance in your hot pepper jelly recipe.
Can I use frozen peppers instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh peppers yield better texture and vibrant color in your hot pepper jelly recipe.
How long does homemade hot pepper jelly last?
Homemade hot pepper jelly can last up to one year if stored properly in sealed jars.
Hot Pepper Jelly
Hot pepper jelly is a delightful blend of sweetness and spice that elevates any dish. This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh hot peppers, sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create a vibrant jelly perfect for appetizers, meats, or even desserts. With customizable heat levels, it’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a zesty twist to your summer barbecues and family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 32 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups finely chopped fresh hot peppers (mix of jalapeños and bell peppers)
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (unfiltered)
- 1 package (1.75 oz) low-sugar pectin
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare your peppers by washing and chopping them finely while wearing gloves.
- In a large saucepan, combine chopped peppers, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Heat the mixture over medium-high until it reaches a rolling boil, stirring occasionally.
- Add the pectin to the boiling mixture, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and perform a spoon test to check consistency; it should hold its shape.
- Pour the hot pepper jelly into sterilized jars while warm, seal tightly, and let cool at room temperature before refrigerating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
