Chef Bihi Have you ever wondered how to make the most of your fruits and vegetables? This week, delight in the wonderful world of flavors with a recipe that transforms apple peels and cores into a delightful spicy jelly. Not only is this dish economical and eco-friendly, but it also packs in a punch of nutrients. Ready to reduce waste and enjoy a delicious treat? Let’s embark on this tasty adventure!
Spicy Jelly with Apple Peels and Cores
Recipe Information
- Servings: 6-8 jars
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- For the jelly:
- 2.2 lbs (1 kg) apple peels and cores
- 1 untreated yellow lemon
- 4 vanilla pods
- 2.2 lbs (1 kg) sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 8 cardamom seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the apple peels and cores by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. Set aside.
- Slice the lemon into quarters, keeping the skin on.
- In a large pot, combine the apple peels and cores, lemon quarters, vanilla pods, sugar, cinnamon stick, and cardamom seeds.
- Add enough water to cover the mixture. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the mixture has thickened and the flavors have developed, remove from heat. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solids. Discard the solids and reserve the liquid.
- Pour the strained liquid back into the pot and bring it to a rolling boil for another 10-15 minutes until it reaches the desired jelly consistency, testing with a spoon.
- Once ready, pour the jelly into sterilized jars while hot, seal tightly, and let cool completely at room temperature.
Notes
This jelly can be enjoyed on toast, desserts, or as a glaze for meats. The use of vanilla, cardamom, and cinnamon gives it a delightful twist!
Recipe Tips
- For a more pronounced flavor, steep the spices for an additional time before straining.
- Make sure to use untreated lemons to avoid any pesticides.
- This jelly also makes a lovely homemade gift when placed in decorative jars.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 60 calories, offering a good source of fiber and essential vitamins from the apples and lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other fruit peels for this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruit peels like pears or citrus fruits for various flavors.
- How long will the jelly last?
- Sealed jars can last up to a year if stored in a cool, dark place.
- Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
- It’s vegan and can be gluten-free, but check your sugar source if you have allergies.
- Can I substitute ingredients?
- You can adjust the spices to your preference or use different sweeteners if desired.
- What can I serve this jelly with?
- Try it on breads, pancakes, as a filling in pastries, or as a glaze for meats.
