Homemade Grape Jelly Recipe

Homemade Grape Jelly Recipe Introduction: Grape jelly is a classic spread that can be enjoyed on toast, biscuits, or used as a glaze for meats. With just a few ingredients, you can make your own fresh grape jelly at home, free from artificial preservatives. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Follow these steps to create a delicious, smooth jelly that preserves the natural sweetness of grapes. Ingredients: 4 cups of fresh grape juice (from about 5-6 lbs of Concord grapes) 1 package (1.75 oz) of powdered pectin 5 cups of granulated sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness) Instructions: Prepare the Grape Juice: Start by washing and de-stemming the grapes. In a large pot, place the cleaned grapes and add just enough water to cover the bottom of the pot (about 1/2 cup). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the grapes soften, releasing their juice. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Strain the cooked grapes through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, pressing down gently to extract the juice. Discard the solids. Making the Jelly: In a large pot, pour 4 cups of the freshly squeezed grape juice. Add the powdered pectin and stir well. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring continuously. Once boiling, quickly add all the sugar. Stir constantly, bringing it back to a full boil for 1-2 minutes. The mixture should thicken noticeably. Remove from heat and skim off any foam.