Ingredients:
- 2 cups (475ml) apple cider vinegar
- 6 cups (1200g) granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups (about 6-8) fresh jalapeño peppers, stemmed, seeded (optional), and finely minced
- 1 green bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and finely minced
- 1 package (1.75 oz/49g) powdered pectin (like Sure-Jell)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
Instructions:
- Sterilize jars and lids in boiling water or according to manufacturer's instructions. Keep hot.
- Wearing gloves, finely mince jalapeños and bell pepper. Measure accurately.
- In a large pot, combine vinegar, sugar, and bell pepper. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
- In a small bowl, combine pectin with 1/4 cup of water. Stir into the boiling mixture. Continue stirring constantly.
- Add the minced jalapeños to the pot. Continue to cook over high heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 220°F (104°C) on a candy thermometer, or until it reaches the jell point.
- Spoon a small amount of jelly onto a chilled plate. Let cool slightly. If it forms a skin and doesn't run when tilted, it's ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
- Once the jelly reaches the jell point, remove the pot from the heat. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Carefully ladle the hot jelly into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean. Place lids on the jars and screw on the bands fingertip-tight.
- Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust time based on altitude). This step helps ensure a longer shelf life and a secure seal. Skip this step if you plan to refrigerate the jelly and use it within a few weeks.
- Remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined surface to cool completely. As the jars cool, you should hear a 'pop' sound indicating that they have sealed properly. If a jar doesn't seal, refrigerate it and use it within a few weeks. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Now you have a perfect jalapeno jelly recipe!