Aunt Flossie'S Unbelievable Jelly
A vibrant, sweet-and-tangy jelly with the bold flavors of beet and lemon, perfect for spreading on toast or serving as a colorful condiment. Its unique taste appeals to those who enjoy homemade preserves with a twist, and it’s ideal for breakfast or as a gift for food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 6 c. strained beet juice
- 1/2 c. ReaLemon juice
- 2 pkg. Sure-Jell ⓘ
- 8 c. sugar
Instructions
- Bring the strained beet juice, ReaLemon juice, and Sure-Jell to a boil.
- Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Boil the mixture for 15 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Test the thickness to your preference, then skim off any foam.
- Add Kool-Aid and stir until dissolved.
- Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Aunt Flossie's Unbelievable Jelly, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract while boiling. If you're out of Sure-Jell, you can substitute with another pectin brand, just ensure it has similar instructions. For a different twist, try mixing in a small amount of Kool-Aid in a flavor that complements the beet juice.
Serving Suggestions
This jelly is perfect spread on toast or biscuits for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with Pineapple Peach Salad or can be used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt. For a fun treat, try it as a filling in pastries or as a sweet addition to cheese platters.
Storage & Reheating
Once the jelly has cooled completely, store it in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed jars can last for up to a year. If you need to reheat, do so gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warm and spreadable. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Flossie'S Unbelievable Jelly contains roughly 94 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh beet juice instead of strained?
Yes, you can use fresh beet juice, but ensure to strain it well to eliminate any pulp for a smooth jelly. The straining process enhances the color and texture, making your jelly more appealing and easier to spread.
What can I do if my jelly doesn't set?
If your jelly hasn't set, don’t worry! You can reboil it with additional pectin. Mix a small amount of pectin with sugar and add it to the jelly, then boil for another 5-10 minutes. This should help achieve the desired consistency.
Can I make this jelly vegan?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan as it contains no animal products. Ensure that the pectin used is also vegan-friendly, as some brands may include additives. Enjoy this jelly as part of your vegan recipes collection!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).