Datil Pepper Jelly Recipe For Spicy Homemade Delight

If you’re looking to add a fiery twist to your condiment collection, a homemade Datil Pepper Jelly is an absolute must-try. Known for its unique blend of sweet heat and vibrant flavor, datil peppers bring a delightful punch that is both approachable and exciting.

Originating from St. Augustine, Florida, the datil pepper is beloved by many for its fruity undertones paired with a spicy kick that makes this jelly perfect for everything from glazing meats to spreading on toast.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary adventures, making your own pepper jelly at home is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. This recipe balances the heat of the datil pepper with the sweetness of sugar and the tang of vinegar, resulting in a versatile jelly that’s perfect for appetizers, snacks, and even gift-giving.

Ready to spice up your pantry? Let’s dive into the vibrant world of datil pepper jelly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Datil Pepper Jelly recipe is a standout because it perfectly captures the essence of the datil pepper’s signature heat without overwhelming the palate. It’s sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once, making it a fantastic complement to a wide variety of dishes.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a glaze on chicken or pork, a dip for cream cheese, or even as a topping for crackers during your next gathering.

Plus, homemade jelly means you control the ingredients—no preservatives or artificial flavors, just pure, fresh goodness.

Finally, this jelly keeps well in the fridge and can be canned for longer storage, making it a great way to preserve the unique flavor of datil peppers and share it with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 12-15 fresh datil peppers, seeded and chopped (wear gloves!)
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 package (1.75 oz) liquid fruit pectin
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water

Equipment

• Large saucepan or stockpot
• Food processor or blender
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Sterilized glass jars with lids
• Water bath canner or large pot for processing jars
• Gloves (to handle hot peppers safely)

Instructions

1. Prepare the peppers: Wearing gloves, chop the datil peppers finely. You can remove the seeds for a milder jelly or leave some for extra heat. Use a food processor or blender with the 1/2 cup water to puree the peppers until smooth.
2. Cook the pepper mixture: In a large saucepan, combine the pureed peppers, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, and turmeric if using. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Add sugar and pectin: Once the mixture is simmering, slowly stir in the granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Then, quickly mix in the liquid fruit pectin and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Test the jelly consistency: Remove from heat and test the jelly by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Let it sit for a minute; it should wrinkle when pushed with your finger. If it’s too runny, return to a boil and cook for another minute.
5. Fill and seal jars: Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe rims with a clean, damp cloth and seal with lids.
6. Process jars: Place jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to seal. Remove jars and let cool completely. You should hear the satisfying “pop” of sealed lids as they cool.
7. Store and enjoy: Store the jelly in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep refrigerated and use within a month.

Tips & Variations

Handling datil peppers requires care. Always wear gloves and avoid touching your face or eyes during preparation.

• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder jelly, reduce the number of peppers or remove all seeds before blending.
• Sweeten naturally: Substitute half of the white sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
• Add fruit: For a fruity twist, mix in finely chopped mango or pineapple during step 2 to complement the peppers’ sweetness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm undertone.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant datil pepper jelly is incredibly versatile. Spread it on cream cheese and serve with crackers for an easy appetizer that’s sure to impress guests.

It also pairs beautifully as a glaze for grilled chicken, pork chops, or shrimp, adding both sweetness and heat.

Try stirring a spoonful into your favorite BBQ sauce for an extra kick, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for a flavorful finish. For a breakfast twist, spread the jelly on warm toast or bagels with butter or cream cheese.

Conclusion

Making your own Datil Pepper Jelly is a rewarding way to capture the bold, fruity heat of this unique pepper and transform it into a sweet, spicy treat. This recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels and offers endless possibilities for serving and gifting.

The balance of flavors ensures that the jelly is not only delicious but also versatile enough for a variety of dishes.

With just a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment, you’ll have a batch of vibrant pepper jelly ready to elevate your meals and snacks. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next party or add a special touch to everyday dishes, datil pepper jelly is a pantry staple worth making.

Don’t forget to explore more exciting recipes like Homemade Mango Salsa, Spicy Pickled Okra, and Citrus-Infused BBQ Sauce to complement your culinary creations!

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