Green Bell Pepper Jelly Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

If you love experimenting with unique and flavorful preserves, green bell pepper jelly is a delightful treat you need to try. This vibrant jelly offers a beautiful balance of sweet and tangy with just a hint of peppery warmth, making it a versatile condiment perfect for spreading on toast, glazing grilled dishes, or pairing with cheeses.

Unlike traditional fruit jellies, green bell pepper jelly brings a fresh vegetable twist to your pantry staples, elevating your culinary creations with its bright color and lively flavor. Whether you’re new to jelly making or an experienced home cook, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, promising jars of golden-green goodness that can be enjoyed year-round.

In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make your own green bell pepper jelly, including the ingredients, equipment, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips to ensure your jelly sets perfectly every time.

Plus, I’ll share some creative serving suggestions to inspire you to enjoy this flavorful preserve in new and exciting ways.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This green bell pepper jelly recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses fresh, crisp green bell peppers that provide a subtle earthiness and vibrant color unlike any ordinary jelly.

The sweetness is balanced with a touch of apple cider vinegar and sugar, creating a harmonious blend that’s both tangy and sweet.

Second, it’s incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with cream cheese on crackers for an elegant appetizer, adds a bright glaze to roasted vegetables or grilled tofu, and even works as a unique topping for sandwiches and burgers.

Additionally, because it’s homemade, you control the ingredients, meaning no preservatives or artificial flavors.

Finally, this jelly is surprisingly easy to make with simple pantry staples and straightforward methods, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. The result is a visually stunning, delicious jelly that will impress your family and guests, and make a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped green bell peppers (about 4 large peppers)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar
• 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped for heat
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for a savory kick

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan
• Food processor or blender
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Jelly jars or sterilized glass jars with lids
• Water bath canner or large pot for sterilizing jars
• Jar lifter or tongs

Instructions

1. Prepare the peppers: Wash the green bell peppers (and jalapeños if using), remove stems and seeds, then chop them into small pieces.
2. Puree the peppers: Place the chopped peppers in a food processor or blender and pulse until finely chopped but not completely smooth. You want some texture to remain.
3. Extract the juice: Transfer the pepper mixture to a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a bowl. Let it drain for about 30 minutes to extract the juice. You should get approximately 2 cups of juice. Press gently to release more liquid.
4. Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine the pepper juice, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
5. Add pectin: Sprinkle the fruit pectin evenly over the mixture and stir constantly over medium-high heat. Bring to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down.
6. Boil vigorously: Boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The jelly should begin to thicken.
7. Test the jelly: Remove a small spoonful and place it on a cold plate. Let it sit for a minute. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, the jelly is ready. If not, boil for an additional 30 seconds and test again.
8. Jar the jelly: Remove the pot from heat. Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal with lids.
9. Process jars: Place jars in a boiling water bath canner for 5-10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and preservation.
10. Cool and store: Remove jars with tongs and let cool completely. Check seals after 24 hours. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips & Variations

“For a spicier jelly, add more jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder jelly, omit the jalapeños entirely.”

Choosing Peppers: Use fresh, firm green bell peppers for the best flavor and color. Avoid peppers with soft spots or blemishes.

Adding Flavor: For a savory variation, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a tablespoon of finely chopped onion to the jelly mixture before boiling.

Testing for Set: Be patient when testing your jelly’s set. If it’s too runny, it may need a little more boiling time or an extra bit of pectin.

Storage: Properly processed and sealed jars can last for up to a year. Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within 1 month.

Experiment with Colors: Try mixing green bell peppers with red or yellow peppers for a colorful jelly variation.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Spread on warm toast or bagels with cream cheese for a sweet and tangy breakfast treat.
• Use as a glaze for grilled tofu, tempeh, or roasted vegetables to add a burst of flavor.
• Serve alongside a cheese board with sharp cheddar, goat cheese, or vegan cheese alternatives for a colorful, tasty pairing.
• Add a spoonful to sandwiches or wraps to brighten flavors and add moisture.
• Mix a bit into salad dressings or marinades for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Making your own green bell pepper jelly is a rewarding kitchen project that yields a delicious and versatile condiment. Its bright color and balanced flavor bring a fresh twist to traditional jellies, making it perfect for a wide range of culinary uses.

Whether you’re adding it to your breakfast table, enhancing your appetizers, or creating new flavor combinations, this jelly is sure to become a pantry favorite.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can create beautiful jars of homemade jelly to enjoy or gift. Don’t hesitate to experiment with heat levels and flavor additions to tailor the jelly to your taste.

For more creative and vibrant recipes, check out Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide, and A Cold Vegetable Soup Recipe to Refresh Your Summer Meals for inspiration.

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