Ingredients
• 1½ cups fresh orange juice (from about 3–4 oranges; strain pulp if preferred)
• ½ cup finely minced Serrano peppers (seeds removed for milder heat; wear gloves!)
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 3½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 (1.75 oz) pouch liquid pectin (e.g., Certo)
• 1 tbsp orange zest (optional, for extra brightness)
• ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine orange juice, minced Serranos, vinegar, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; cook 5 min to mellow pepper heat.
- Stir in sugar until dissolved. Bring to a full rolling boil (one that doesn’t stop when stirred).
- Add liquid pectin; return to hard boil. Boil exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat. Skim off foam. Stir in orange zest (if using).
- Ladle hot jelly into sterilized ½-pint jars, leaving ¼” headspace. Wipe rims; seal with lids.
- For shelf-stable: Process in boiling water bath 10 min. Cool 24 hr; check seals.
For fridge/freezer: Skip processing; store in clean jars:
– Refrigerator: up to 3 weeks
– Freezer: up to 6 months (leave ½” headspace for expansion)
FLAVOR NOTES:
- Heat level builds over time—taste after 24 hours.
- Pairs beautifully with cream cheese & crackers, baked brie, grilled chicken, or sharp cheddar.
PREP TIME & YIELD:
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 10 min | Total Time: 25 min (+ cooling) | Yield: ~3 (8-oz) jars