Appetizers are the perfect way to kick - start a meal, and one often - overlooked appetizer ingredient is jelly. Not only is it a sweet and tangy addition to your breakfast table, but it can also be transformed into a variety of delicious treats. In this article, we'll explore how to store jelly in cans for easy use on sandwiches or toast and how to make mouth - watering jelly donuts.
### Storing Jelly in Cans
Storing jelly in cans is a great way to preserve its freshness and flavor for an extended period. First, you need to choose the right type of jelly. You can make your own jelly from fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or peaches. To make homemade jelly, start by washing the fruits thoroughly. Remove any stems, leaves, or pits. Then, crush the fruits and place them in a large pot. Add an appropriate amount of sugar according to the fruit's natural sweetness. For example, strawberries are relatively sweet, so you may need less sugar compared to tart raspberries.
Next, add a small amount of lemon juice. The acid in the lemon juice helps the jelly set. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium - high heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 - 20 minutes until the mixture thickens. You can test the consistency by placing a small amount of the jelly on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's ready.
While the jelly is still hot, carefully ladle it into clean, sterilized cans. Leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each can. Wipe the rims of the cans clean to ensure a good seal. Then, place the lids on the cans and tighten the bands. Process the cans in a boiling water bath for the recommended time based on the size of the cans and the type of jelly. This will help create a vacuum seal and keep the jelly fresh for months.
### Using Jelly on Sandwiches and Toast
Once your jelly is safely stored in cans, it's time to put it to use. For a classic combination, spread a layer of jelly on a slice of toast. You can choose white, whole - wheat, or even rye bread depending on your preference. The sweet jelly pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of whole - wheat toast. You can also add a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on the toast before spreading the jelly for an extra creamy texture.
When it comes to sandwiches, jelly can be a surprising and delicious addition. Try making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a twist. Instead of the traditional grape jelly, use your homemade strawberry or peach jelly. The combination of the rich peanut butter and the sweet jelly creates a harmonious blend of flavors. You can also make a savory - sweet sandwich by combining jelly with some thinly sliced ham or turkey. The jelly adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the saltiness of the meat.
### Making Jelly Donuts
Jelly donuts are a beloved treat that can be easily made at home using your stored jelly. Start by making the donut dough. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. In a separate bowl, warm some milk and add a little bit of sugar to dissolve the yeast. Let the yeast mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 - inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out the donuts. Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Heat some oil in a deep - frying pan to about 375°F. Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil and fry them for about 1 - 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove the donuts from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel.
To fill the donuts with jelly, use a piping bag or a small syringe. Make a small hole in the side of each donut and carefully inject the jelly into the center. You can dust the donuts with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
In conclusion, jelly is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of appetizer - related ways. Whether you're spreading it on toast, using it in sandwiches, or filling donuts, the possibilities are endless. So, go ahead and start making your own jelly today and enjoy these delicious treats!