Beet Jelly
Beet jelly is a delightful and versatile condiment that can add a pop of color and flavor to your dishes. Whether you spread it on toast, pair it with cheeses, or use it as a glaze for meats, beet jelly is a wonderful addition to your pantry. Making your own beet jelly at home is easier than you might think, and the vibrant hue of the beets will surely impress your guests. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through the process of creating your own delicious beet jelly that will elevate your meals and snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beets, peeled and grated
– 4 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 packet powdered fruit pectin
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beets: Start by peeling the beets and grating them using a box grater or a food processor. You should end up with about 4 cups of grated beets.
2. Cook the Beets: Place the grated beets in a large saucepan and add the apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain the Beet Juice: Once the beets are soft, remove the saucepan from the heat. Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the beet mixture, pressing down to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids and measure the beet juice – you should have about 2 cups. If needed, add some water to make up for any shortfall.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the beet juice to the saucepan and stir in the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Bring the mixture back to a boil, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar.
5. Add Pectin: Sprinkle the powdered fruit pectin over the boiling mixture, stirring vigorously to prevent clumping. Let the mixture boil for an additional 1-2 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
6. Jar the Jelly: Ladle the hot beet jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the jar rims clean, then seal with lids and rings.
7. Process the Jars: Process the sealed jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool at room temperature.
8. Enjoy: Once the beet jelly has cooled and set, store it in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Serve the jelly with your favorite dishes or give it as a thoughtful homemade gift to friends and family.
Making your own beet jelly is a rewarding experience that will fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of beets. Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or ginger to customize the flavor to your liking. With this homemade beet jelly recipe, you can add a touch of elegance to your meals and enjoy the vibrant taste of fresh beets all year round.
