Hot Pepper Jelly
Hot Pepper Jelly offers a vibrant blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment for cheese platters or as a zesty spread. Its bright heat and fruity notes appeal to those who enjoy bold condiments with a kick, suitable for parties or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add the chopped green peppers and hot peppers into a large pot.
- Add 6 cups of sugar and 1 1/2 cups of white vinegar.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 9 minutes.
- Remove from stove and add 1 bottle of Certo and green food coloring.
- Stir well until the mixture is combined.
- Pour into hot, clean jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder jelly, reduce the amount of hot peppers or substitute with milder varieties like jalapeños. Ensure the jars are sterilized before pouring to prolong shelf life. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the peppers before cooking. Experiment with different types of sweet peppers for varied flavors, or add herbs such as basil for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Hot pepper jelly makes a delightful spread on crackers or toasted baguette slices, especially when paired with cream cheese. It also adds a spicy kick to sandwiches or can be served as a glaze for grilled meats. For a refreshing side, try it alongside Bahamian Salad for a flavorful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the hot pepper jelly in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator where it should last for several weeks. To reheat, simply warm the jelly gently in a saucepan over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Avoid overheating to maintain flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Pepper Jelly contains roughly 1080 calories, with 45g protein, 198g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (289% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 81g 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 frozen peppers for this recipe?
Yes, frozen peppers can be used in this recipe, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. Fresh peppers offer better flavor and texture, but using frozen is a convenient alternative if fresh ones are unavailable.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the jelly?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the sugar by up to half a cup, but be aware that this may affect the jelly's setting properties. Alternatively, consider using a sugar substitute designed for canning, but check compatibility with the Certo pectin you'll be using.
What can I do if my jelly doesn't set?
If your jelly doesn't set, it could be due to insufficient cooking time or not enough pectin. You can reprocess the jelly by adding more Certo and gently reheating it to a boil. Pour it back into sterilized jars and seal again.
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).