How to Make Cherry Jelly: A Simple Guide for Home Chefs

Cherries are a cherished summer fruit, but once their season ends, you can keep their delightful taste alive by making a delicious cherry jam. This easy recipe uses just three ingredients - cherries, sugar, and lemon juice - to create a sweet and tangy preserve that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Health Benefits of Cherries

Cherries are packed with essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them an excellent food for promoting health. They are excellent for exercise recovery and can even help in managing symptoms of conditions like arthritis, heart health, and gout. However, it's important to keep in mind that if you're concerned about sugar intake, you can adjust the amount of sugar and lemon juice according to your preference.

Ingredients Needed

Sweet black cherries or a mix of sweet and sour varieties like Bing, Black, Marello, or Montmorency cherries Sugar (adjustable depending on the sugar content of the cherries) Lemon juice (adjustable depending on the natural fruit pectin)

Step-by-Step Guide

Deseeding the Cherries

Deseeding cherries can be a tedious task. You have a few options to choose from. You can either use a cherry pitter or open the cherries with your fingers and pull out the seeds. It's a great idea to get help from children and do it while watching your favorite show to make the process more enjoyable.

Preparing the Ingredients

Transfer pitted cherries to a thick, wide-based pot. Add sugar and lemon juice. Mix well and let the cherries rest in the fridge for 3-4 hours or overnight to macerate. This resting period helps the fruit release its juices and gel.

Cooking the Cherry Jam

Cook the mixture for 10 minutes on medium-low heat until it becomes soft. Adjust the texture as needed. If you want a chunky jam, mash the mixture; if you prefer a smoother consistency, blend it in a food processor for a few seconds. Continue to cook until the jam thickens, which can be tested by making a line on a spatula. If the line stays thick, the jam is ready. If not, cook for another 5 minutes.

Cold Plate Test

To check the consistency of the jam, perform a cold plate test. Transfer a small amount of the jam to a chilled plate in the freezer. If it holds its shape and thickens, it's ready. If not, continue to cook until it achieves the desired consistency.

Filling Jars and Storing

Ladle the hot jam into clean, dry jars and let them cool completely before placing the lids. If storing the jam in the fridge or freezer, you don't need to sterilize the jars or can them.

Conclusion

With a little effort, you can preserve the sweet taste of cherries and enjoy it all year round. This cherry jam without pectin is a simple and delicious way to keep the essence of summer in your kitchen.