Jalapeno Pepper Jelly

Big Guy and I have planted jalapeno plants in our garden from the first year we moved into our house. They are easy to grow and always produce enough of a harvest to share with the whole neighborhood!

My parents were fans of pepper jelly and were giddy if they ever got a jar of it. I decided to surprise them over a decade ago with my first attempt at making pepper jelly. I would call it a success, but I did not like the idea of using pectin and food dye, so I went on the hunt for a better recipe.

I found the perfect recipe which uses granny smith apples and cranberries as a substitute for the pectin. With the addition of a red pepper, I created a beautiful red jelly that provided additional sweetness, beside the sugar, to complement the heat of the jalapenos.

I have posted the recipe, but a warning comes with it. As you slice into the jalapenos, make sure you have ventilated your space well or you will start to cough. Also, this is a multiple step recipe so plan to spend time in the kitchen. Despite the warning, the outcome is worth it!

Here's a link to the recipe:  Jalapeno pepper jelly - CARONDELET KITCHEN