Red Beet Jelly
Vibrant red beet jelly offers a sweet, earthy flavor with a stunning color, perfect for adding a unique touch to breakfast spreads or as a colorful condiment.
Ingredients
- 3 cups red beet water ⓘ
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 package Sure-Jell
Instructions
- Cook red beets and take 3 cups of the water they were cooked in. Bring the red beet water to a boil.
- Mix gelatin and Sure-Jell. Quickly add to the boiling juice to dissolve.
- Remove from heat; add sugar immediately and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into jars and seal.
- Let the jelly set before serving. Makes 4 to 5 cups.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother jelly, strain the beet water through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids before boiling. If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar to 3 cups and add a splash of lemon juice for balance. Ensure the Sure-Jell is fresh for proper gelling. For a unique twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or ginger, reminiscent of flavors in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant beet jelly is perfect on toast or as a spread for sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with cheese platters or can be drizzled over roasted meats, especially Home Style Ribs. For a refreshing treat, try it on pancakes or mix it into yogurt. Explore its versatility by using it as a topping for desserts or incorporating it into a glaze for savory dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jelly in the refrigerator, where it can last for several weeks. To enjoy it again, simply spoon out the amount you need; there’s no need to reheat as it’s best served chilled. If you notice any separation, gently stir before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Beet Jelly contains roughly 169 calories, with 4g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 8g 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 canned beet juice instead of cooking fresh beets?
Yes, you can substitute canned beet juice for the fresh beet water. Just ensure you choose a variety without added sugar. This can save time, but the flavor may be slightly different, so taste and adjust the sugar accordingly for the best results.
How long does it take for the jelly to set?
Typically, the jelly will set within a few hours at room temperature. However, for the best texture, refrigerate it for at least 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the jelly to firm up properly, ensuring a delightful spreadable consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this jelly vegan, ensure you use a plant-based gelatin alternative such as agar-agar instead of Sure-Jell. Follow the package instructions for proper gelling. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version that retains the beautiful color and flavor of the original recipe.
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).