Recipe For Crab Apple Jelly With Pectin
Crab apple jelly is a delicious homemade jelly that is easy to make and perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, and biscuits. The jelly is made from crab apples, which are small, tart apples that are high in pectin, making them perfect for jelly making. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make crab apple jelly with pectin.
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds of crab apples
- 8 cups of water
- 1 package of powdered pectin (1.75 oz)
- 6 cups of sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Wash the crab apples thoroughly and remove any stems, leaves, or bruises. Cut the apples into quarters or smaller pieces, leaving the seeds and skin intact. Place the apples in a large pot and add 8 cups of water. Bring the water to a boil and then simmer for about 30 minutes or until the apples are soft and mushy.
Step 2: Strain the Juice
Place a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer over a large bowl or pot. Pour the apple mixture into the strainer and let the juice drain through. Use a spoon or spatula to press the pulp to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the pulp and transfer the juice back to the pot.
Step 3: Add Pectin and Sugar
Add the package of pectin to the juice and stir until it is completely dissolved. Bring the juice to a rolling boil and add the sugar, stirring constantly until it is dissolved. Once the sugar is dissolved, let the mixture boil for about one minute.
Step 4: Check for Set Point
To check if the jelly has reached the set point, use a candy thermometer or the plate test. For the plate test, place a small amount of the hot jelly on a plate that has been chilled in the freezer. Wait a few seconds, and then push the jelly with your finger. If it wrinkles, it has reached the set point. If it is still runny, let the jelly boil for another minute and try again.
Step 5: Can the Jelly
Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids and bands on the jars. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, then remove them from the water and let them cool on a wire rack. The jars should seal as they cool, making a popping sound. Store the jars in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
Conclusion
Crab apple jelly is a delicious, sweet and tart jelly that is easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this unique and flavorful jelly that is perfect for spreading on toast or adding to your favorite recipe. Follow this recipe for crab apple jelly with pectin, and you'll have a delicious homemade jelly in no time!