Mint jelly is a classic condiment that adds a fresh, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor to dishes like lamb, roasted meats, and even cheese platters. Making your own mint jelly at home is easier than you might think, and it tastes far better than store-bought versions. Plus, it’s a fun way to use fresh mint from your garden or local market.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a straightforward, step-by-step guide on how to make mint jelly from scratch. You’ll learn about the ingredients, the process, and some handy tips to ensure your jelly turns out perfectly every time.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Mint Jelly
– Fresh mint leaves (about 1½ cups, packed)
– Water (around 3 to 4½ cups depending on the recipe)
– Granulated sugar (usually 4 cups, but adjust based on juice quantity)
– Lemon juice (about ½ teaspoon to 4 tablespoons, depending on recipe size)
– Fruit pectin (1 box or about 1¾ ounces; this helps the jelly set)
– Optional: green food coloring (just a few drops for that classic minty green hue)
Some recipes also include apples (with skin and core) to add natural pectin, which helps the jelly set without needing as much commercial pectin. This is a traditional method that adds body and clarity to the jelly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mint Jelly
1. Prepare the Mint Infusion
Start by washing your fresh mint leaves thoroughly. Roughly chop the mint or crush it gently to release the oils. Place the mint in a saucepan with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let it steep for about 10 minutes to extract the mint flavor fully.
If you’re using apples for natural pectin, chop them into chunks (skin and core included) and simmer them with the mint, lemon, and water for 20-30 minutes until the apples are soft and pulpy.
2. Strain the Mixture
Pour the mint infusion through a fine strainer lined with cheesecloth or a jelly bag into a bowl. Let it drip naturally without pressing the solids, as pressing can cause cloudiness in the jelly. This step might take a couple of hours or even overnight for the best clarity.
3. Measure and Sweeten
Measure the clear mint juice you’ve collected. You’ll typically need about 3 to 4 cups. Add sugar to the juice—usually equal parts, but you can adjust slightly depending on your taste and the juice quantity.
Add lemon juice and, if desired, a couple of drops of green food coloring to enhance the color. Stir in the fruit pectin thoroughly.
4. Cook the Jelly
Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, add the sugar and return to a full rolling boil. Boil for exactly one minute while stirring continuously. Skim off any foam that forms on top to keep the jelly clear.
If you used apples, continue to simmer the mixture until it thickens, about 10 minutes, skimming foam as needed.
5. Test for Setting Point
To test if your jelly is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. Push the edge gently with your finger; if it wrinkles and resists flowing, it’s set. If not, boil a little longer and test again.
6. Jar and Seal
Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath or steam canner for about 5-10 minutes to ensure a good seal and longer shelf life.
Let the jars cool completely on a towel. Once cooled, check the seals by pressing the lid center—if it springs back, refrigeration is needed.
Tips for Perfect Mint Jelly
– Use fresh, vibrant mint: The fresher the mint, the more flavorful your jelly will be.
– Don’t press the solids when straining: This prevents cloudiness.
– Add a little butter: A small amount of butter can reduce foaming during boiling.
– Be patient: Allowing the juice to drip naturally ensures clarity.
– Store properly: Keep sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.
Making mint jelly at home is a rewarding process that yields a delicious, versatile condiment. Whether you’re serving it with roast lamb, spreading it on toast, or adding a dollop to your cheese board, homemade mint jelly brings a fresh and delightful touch to your meals.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the fresh taste of mint jelly made by you!