Prickly Pear Jelly
Prickly Pear Jelly captures the vibrant magenta hue and subtly floral, melon-like flavor of cactus fruit, brightened with a touch of lemon. It sets to a glossy, spoonable texture thanks to pectin, delivering a balance of sweetness and tang that’s lovely on toast, biscuits, or cheese boards. Ideal for gifting or stocking the pantry after a seasonal harvest.
- Prep30 min
- Cook30 min
- Serves24
- DifficultyMedium
- 1
Simmer 3 pint-size jars in a large pot of water until the jelly is ready. Wash the lids and rings in warm, soapy water.
- 2
Slice the ends off each prickly pear. Make one long vertical slit down each. Use the slit to grip the skin and peel it off. Discard the peel.
- 3
Place the peeled pears in a blender and purée in batches until liquefied. Press the puréed mixture through a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl. Discard the pulp and seeds.
- 4
Measure 3 cups of prickly pear juice and pour it into a large pot. Add lemon juice and pectin; bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Add sugar and return to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook at a boil until thickened, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat.
- 5
Pour the prickly pear jelly into the hot, sterilized jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a clean knife or thin spatula around the inside of the jars to release any air bubbles. Wipe the jar rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue. Top with the lids and screw on the rings.
- 6
Place a rack in the bottom of a stockpot and fill it halfway with water; bring to a boil. Lower the jars, spaced 2 inches apart, into the boiling water using a holder. Add more boiling water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil, cover the stockpot, and process for 15 minutes.
- 7
Remove the jars from the stockpot and set them on a cloth-covered or wood surface several inches apart. Let cool for at least 24 hours. Press the center of each lid with a finger to ensure it does not move up or down. Remove the rings for storage and store in a cool, dark place.
- Calories 169.01 kcal Moderate
- Protein 2.24 g Low Source
- Carbs 43.47 g Moderate
- Total Fat 0.15 g Low Source
- Saturated Fat 0.04 g Low Source
- Trans Fat 0.0 g Low Source
- Cholesterol 0.0 mg Low Source
- Sodium 36.18 mg Low Source
- Fiber 3.72 g Moderate
- Sugar 39.69 g High
- Added Sugar 0.0 g Low Source
- Calcium 276.95 mg Good Source
- Iron 1.0 mg Low Source
- Potassium 436.52 mg Low Source
- Vitamin A 38.81 mcg_rae Low Source
- Vitamin C 15.7 mg Moderate
- Vitamin D 0.0 mcg Low Source
Values are per serving. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
- Citrus 🍊
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