Teresa'S Poor Man'S Jelly
Teresa's Poor Man's Jelly combines ripe tomatoes, sugar, lemon juice, and flavored Jell-O for a sweet, tangy treat perfect for casual gatherings or a unique dessert option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Puree the peeled tomatoes in a food processor or blender.
- Place the tomato puree in a saucepan with sugar and lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for 25 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Add the flavored Jell-O and stir until dissolved.
- Pour into containers and freeze until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the tomatoes are well-pureed before cooking. Consider using different flavored Jell-O to customize the taste; strawberry or raspberry can add a delightful twist. If you prefer a more natural sweetness, you can reduce the sugar slightly or use agave syrup as a substitute. This jelly is versatile and can be enjoyed on toast or as a topping for desserts.
Serving Suggestions
This jelly can be served on toast, pancakes, or as a filling in pastries. It also pairs beautifully with Aunt Bobby'S Baked Beans for a contrasting flavor at barbecues. Consider serving it alongside cream cheese as a dip for crackers, or use it as a unique topping for vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Once the jelly is set, store it in airtight containers in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 6 months. To enjoy, simply take out the desired amount and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for a quicker option. Do not refreeze once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Teresa'S Poor Man'S Jelly contains roughly 236 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 11g 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 tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned peeled tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available. Just ensure to drain any excess liquid to maintain the desired consistency. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still yield a delicious jelly.
How long does this jelly last once opened?
Once opened, the jelly can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to use a clean utensil each time you scoop out jelly to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.
Can I make this jelly without Jell-O?
Yes, you can make a homemade pectin using apple peels or citrus peels to thicken the jelly instead of using Jell-O. This will require some modifications to the cooking time and sugar content, but it can yield a more natural flavor.
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).