Texas Jalapeno Jelly

Texas Jalapeno Jelly is a delightful homemade treat that makes for perfect holiday or hostess gifts. This recipe, packed with the flavors of the Southwest, is sure to be warmly received by anyone fortunate enough to taste it. Originating from the heart of Texas in Victoria, this recipe brings together the bold spiciness of jalapeno peppers and the vibrant taste of green peppers. The addition of cayenne pepper gives it an extra kick, making it an excellent condiment to liven up any dish. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this jelly promises to add a unique and zesty touch to your culinary creations.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
• 3 medium green peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces, divided
• 1½ cups white vinegar, divided
• 6½ cups sugar
• ½ to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 pouches (3 ounces each) liquid fruit pectin
• About 6 drops green food coloring, optional
• Cream cheese and crackers, optional

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the jalapenos, half of the green peppers, and ½ cup vinegar.
2. Transfer the mixture to a large Dutch oven.
3. Repeat the blending process with the remaining green peppers and another ½ cup of vinegar.
4. Add sugar, cayenne, and the remaining vinegar to the Dutch oven.
5. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
6. Quickly stir in the liquid fruit pectin and return the mixture to a rolling boil, boiling for 1 minute, while stirring constantly.
7. Remove the mixture from the heat and skim off any foam.
8. Add food coloring if desired.
9. Carefully ladle the hot mixture into hot half-pint jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
10. Remove air bubbles, wipe the rims, and adjust the lids.

YIELD: Makes 7 half-pints.

COOKING TIME: Process for 10 minutes in a boiling-water canner.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• When cutting hot peppers, disposable gloves are recommended. Avoid touching your face.
• The processing time listed is for altitudes of 1,000 feet or less. Add 1 minute to the processing time for each 1,000 feet of additional altitude.

TIPS:

• For a Southwestern accent, consider trimming the jar lid with a bandanna.
• Enjoy the jalapeno jelly over cream cheese with crackers for a delicious snack or appetizer.

The tradition of jalapeno jelly stretches back through generations in the Southwestern United States. Texans proudly boast that it all started in Lake Jackson in 1978, where the first jalapeno jelly featuring their official state pepper was sold. However, this spicy delicacy has likely been a favorite for much longer, with roots tracing back to the Hollywood cocktail parties of caterer Viola Rowlands. Her jalapeno jelly was a hit among partygoers, and today, her granddaughter’s company, Viola’s Gourmet Goodies, continues to share this zesty spread with the world.

Preparing this Texas Jalapeno Jelly is a simple and rewarding experience. Blending the jalapenos and green peppers creates a vibrant and spicy base, enhanced by the addition of cayenne pepper for an extra burst of flavor. The sweetness of sugar and the tang of vinegar balance out the heat, creating a perfectly harmonious taste profile. The liquid fruit pectin ensures a smooth and consistent texture, while a touch of green food coloring, if desired, adds a pop of color to the final product.

When preserving this delicious jelly, it is essential to follow the canning process carefully. Sterilized jars and proper sealing techniques guarantee that the jelly will stay fresh and flavorful for an extended period. It’s a thoughtful and heartfelt gift, perfect for sharing during the holiday season or as a gracious gesture to a hostess.

Beyond just spreading it on toast or biscuits, there are countless creative ways to enjoy this jalapeno jelly. As the recipe suggests, serving it over cream cheese with crackers makes for a delectable appetizer, combining the heat of the jelly with the creaminess of the cheese. Moreover, this versatile condiment can also be used as a glaze for meats, a dip for chicken nuggets or spring rolls, or even as a marinade for grilled vegetables.

In conclusion, Texas Jalapeno Jelly is a true taste of the Southwest, bringing together the essence of jalapenos and green peppers in a sweet and spicy spread. With its unique blend of flavors, it’s no wonder this jelly has become a beloved tradition in Texas and beyond. So, whether you’re savoring it at home or gifting it to loved ones, this jalapeno jelly is sure to delight and add a touch of Texas charm to every occasion.