grape jelly in mason jars

Homemade Grape Jelly Recipe: A Simple Recipe to Preserve Your Garden Grapes

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Introduction

Grape jelly is a classic spread that’s been a staple in many households for years. Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or a beginner looking to try your hand at preserving, this easy-to-follow grape jelly recipe will help you make the most out of your garden grapes.

Recipe Information

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yields: About 4-5 cups

Ingredients

  • 5 lbs of garden grapes (Concord or red grapes are ideal)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (e.g., Sure-Jell)
  • 4 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • Sterilized jars and lids for canning

Instructions

Preparing the Grapes:

  1. Wash the grapes thoroughly and remove the stems.
  2. Place the grapes in a large pot and crush them using a potato masher to release their juices.

Cooking the Grapes:

  1. Heat the crushed grapes over medium heat and bring to a simmer.
  2. Continue to simmer for about 10 minutes, mashing occasionally.
  3. Remove from heat and strain the grape mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or jelly bag, collecting the juice in a clean pot.

Making the Jelly:

  1. Measure 4 cups of the grape juice and pour it back into a clean, large pot.
  2. Add the lemon juice and fruit pectin to the pot, stirring to combine.
  3. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, add the granulated sugar all at once, stirring constantly.
  5. Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil and cook for 2-3 minutes or until it reaches the desired consistency. Perform a gel test if unsure.

Canning the Jelly:

  1. Ladle the hot grape jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace.
  2. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth.
  3. Place sterilized lids onto the jars and screw on the metal bands until fingertip-tight.
  4. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes to ensure they are sealed and preserved.
  5. Remove the jars from the water and allow them to cool completely. Make sure the lids have sealed by pressing down on the center.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Spread on toast, bagels, or muffins.
  • Use as a filling for pastries or thumbprint cookies.
  • Add to sauces or salad dressings for a unique flavour twist.

Conclusion

Making homemade grape jelly is a rewarding way to preserve your garden grapes for year-round enjoyment. This simple recipe is great for beginners and offers room for customization based on your personal taste.

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