Imagine spreading a burst of sunshine on your morning toast - this Summer Orange and Thyme Jelly is not just a preserve, it's a culinary adventure that captures the vibrant essence of the season! With its delicate balance of sweet citrus and aromatic herb, this homemade jelly will elevate your breakfast from ordinary to extraordinary, bringing a touch of gourmet magic to your table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Preserve
Serves: 4 jars
Ingredients
- 4 cups orange juice
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh thyme
- 1 package pectin
Instructions
- Wash and sterilize 4 clean glass jars and lids by boiling them in hot water for 10 minutes to ensure proper preservation.
- Rinse fresh thyme sprigs thoroughly and pat dry with clean paper towels. Finely chop the thyme leaves to release their aromatic oils.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed stainless steel pot, combine fresh orange juice and chopped thyme. Allow the mixture to steep for 10 minutes to infuse the thyme flavor.
- Add the pectin to the orange juice and thyme mixture, whisking thoroughly to prevent any clumping.
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Gradually add sugar while continuing to stir, ensuring it dissolves completely and the mixture returns to a full boil.
- Continue boiling for 5-7 minutes, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface with a metal spoon.
- Perform a gel test by placing a small amount of jelly on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it has reached the correct consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the jelly cool for 2-3 minutes to allow slight thickening.
- Carefully pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe jar rims clean, apply lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing.
- Remove jars and let cool completely at room temperature. Check seals and store in a cool, dark place.
Tips
- • Use fresh, high-quality orange juice for the most vibrant flavor • Make sure to finely chop thyme to distribute its aromatic oils evenly • Always sterilize jars thoroughly to ensure food safety and longer preservation • Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control during cooking • Allow jelly to cool naturally to achieve the perfect set • Store in a cool, dark place and consume within 6-8 months for optimal taste • For an extra flavor boost, consider using organic thyme from your garden • Test gel consistency by using the chilled plate method to avoid over or under-cooking
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 417kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
