Recipe for Mustang Grape Jelly That Tastes Amazing

If you’re a fan of unique and delicious preserves, Mustang grape jelly is a delightful treat you simply must try. Mustang grapes, native to the southern United States, are small, wild grapes bursting with robust flavor, perfect for making a vibrant, tangy jelly that captures the essence of late summer and early fall.

Unlike commercial grape jellies, this homemade version offers a natural sweetness with a slight tartness, creating a wonderfully balanced spread that pairs beautifully with toast, biscuits, or even as a glaze for savory dishes.

Making your own Mustang grape jelly allows you to savor the fresh taste of these wild grapes and enjoy a homemade product free of artificial additives. Plus, it’s an excellent way to preserve the bounty of the season.

Whether you’re a seasoned jelly maker or a beginner, this recipe guides you through every step with easy-to-follow instructions and expert tips. So, grab your jars and let’s get started on crafting this delicious Mustang grape jelly that’s sure to be a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mustang grape jelly recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses fresh, wild grapes that provide a unique flavor profile you won’t find in store-bought jellies.

The balance of sweetness and tartness gives your jelly a vibrant character that enhances any dish.

Secondly, the recipe is straightforward and approachable, perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. You don’t need any fancy equipment or tricky techniques — just fresh ingredients and a little patience.

Lastly, it’s versatile! Mustang grape jelly is fantastic on morning toast, as a topping for desserts, or even paired with cheese and charcuterie boards.

This recipe also makes an excellent gift for friends and family, capturing the taste of the season in a jar.

Ingredients

• 4 quarts Mustang grapes, washed and stemmed
• 1 cup water
• 1 package fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
• 5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Equipment

• Large stockpot or jelly pot
• Fine mesh strainer or jelly bag
• Large bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Clean canning jars with lids
• Water bath canner or large pot for sterilizing jars
• Jar lifter and funnel (optional but helpful)
• Thermometer (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the grapes: Remove stems from the Mustang grapes and rinse them thoroughly under cool water. Place the grapes in a large stockpot.
2. Add water: Pour 1 cup of water over the grapes to help prevent burning and to facilitate cooking.
3. Cook the grapes: Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Crush the grapes gently with a potato masher or spoon to release the juice.
4. Extract the juice: Remove the pot from heat and strain the grape mixture through a fine mesh strainer or jelly bag into a large bowl. Let it drip naturally for about 1-2 hours for clear juice, or press gently for a more intense flavor and color.
5. Measure the juice: Measure out exactly 5 cups of grape juice and pour it back into the cleaned pot.
6. Add pectin: Stir in the package of fruit pectin thoroughly into the grape juice.
7. Boil the mixture: Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
8. Add sugar: Quickly add all 5 cups of granulated sugar to the boiling juice. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the sugar, and return to a full rolling boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring continuously.
9. Add lemon juice: Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the jelly’s flavor.
10. Remove from heat: Take the pot off the heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface using a spoon.
11. Jar the jelly: Using a funnel if desired, pour the hot jelly into sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
12. Seal and process: Wipe jar rims clean, place lids on jars, and screw bands on until fingertip-tight. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and preservation.
13. Cool and store: Remove jars carefully and let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals before storing in a cool, dark place.

Tips & Variations

“For the clearest jelly, allow the grape juice to drip naturally through the strainer or jelly bag without pressing. For a richer, more intense jelly, press the grapes gently to extract more juice and flavor.”

Experiment with the sweetness by adjusting sugar slightly, but remember that sugar also acts as a preservative. If you prefer a lower sugar jelly, consider using low-sugar pectin and follow package instructions.

For a fun twist, add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to the grape juice while cooking for a warm spiced flavor. Be sure to remove the spices before adding pectin.

If you’re interested in other fruit preserves, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a savory meal that pairs well with sweet spreads.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and preparation methods.

Serving Suggestions

Mustang grape jelly is incredibly versatile and can elevate a variety of dishes. Spread it thickly on warm toast or freshly baked biscuits for a classic breakfast treat.

It also makes a wonderful topping for pancakes, waffles, or even oatmeal.

For a savory twist, use it as a glaze for roasted meats such as pork or chicken. Its sweet-tart flavor pairs beautifully with smoky or spicy dishes.

You can also serve it alongside cheese boards — try it with sharp cheddar, brie, or goat cheese for a delightful contrast.

Explore other delicious vegan meal ideas like our Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals or fresh, light options such as the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas to complement your homemade jelly.

Conclusion

Making Mustang grape jelly at home is a rewarding and satisfying experience. This recipe captures the bold, natural flavors of wild Mustang grapes, turning them into a beautifully balanced jelly that’s perfect for spreading, glazing, and gifting.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy the fresh taste of the season year-round.

Whether you’re preserving a harvest or just looking for a new favorite preserve, this Mustang grape jelly recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family — they’re sure to ask for the recipe!

For more delightful recipes, explore our collection including the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for a warm and hearty meal.

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