Strawberry and chilli jellies

Strawberry and chilli jellies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a surprising kick of spice. These jellies are perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a summer gathering, an elegant dinner party, or simply a fun dessert at home. Their unique flavor profile and beautiful presentation make them stand out on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Unique Flavor Combination: The addition of Tabasco gives these jellies an unexpected spicy twist that will surprise your guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as petit fours, alongside tea, or even as a unique gift in jars.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant color of the strawberry jellies adds a pop to any dessert spread.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Tabasco to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect strawberry and chilli jellies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smoother cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Large pan
• Baking tray
• Cling film or nonstick cooking spray
• Thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is vital for combining ingredients without spills.
• Thermometer: Ensures accurate temperature readings for achieving the right set for your jellies.

Ingredients

To make delicious strawberry and chilli jellies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Jellies

• 800g of strawberry purée
• 760g of sugar
• 20g of pectin
• 10g of tartaric acid
• 2 tsp Tabasco

For Coating

• 50g of caster sugar

How to Make Strawberry and chilli jellies

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

1. In a large pan, combine the strawberry purée with 720g of sugar.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Step 2: Mix Pectin and Sugar

1. In a separate mixing bowl, combine pectin with 40g of sugar.
2. Once the strawberry mixture has boiled, add the pectin mixture slowly while stirring continuously.

Step 3: Heat to Desired Temperature

1. Continue heating until the mixture reaches 104ºC.
2. Remove from heat and stir in tartaric acid and Tabasco, mixing well.

Step 4: Set the Jellies

1. Line a baking tray with cling film or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Pour the jelly mixture into the prepared tray.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

1. Once set, cut the jellies into 2cm squares.
2. Roll each square in caster sugar to coat before serving.

Enjoy your homemade strawberry and chilli jellies! They’re sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Strawberry and chilli jellies

Strawberry and chilli jellies are a delightful treat that adds a unique twist to any dessert table. Whether served as a refreshing bite or paired with other dishes, these jellies can elevate your dining experience.

As a Petit Four

• Serve the jellies on a decorative platter for an elegant touch at your next gathering.

With Fresh Fruits

• Pair the jellies with assorted fresh fruits like berries or citrus for a refreshing contrast.

On Top of Cheesecake

• Add the jellies as a topping on cheesecake for an exciting flavor combination.

In Dessert Cups

• Layer the jellies in small dessert cups with whipped cream for an attractive presentation.

With Herbal Tea

• Serve alongside herbal tea to balance the sweetness with a soothing beverage.

How to Perfect Strawberry and chilli jellies

Making strawberry and chilli jellies can be simple, but perfecting them requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your jellies turn out great every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries to enhance flavor and texture.
• Measure accurately: Precision in measuring sugar and pectin is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
• Monitor cooking temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach 104ºC for proper setting.
• Allow ample setting time: Let the jelly set in the fridge for at least 4 hours for optimal firmness.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust the amount of Tabasco according to your spice tolerance for personalized heat levels.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry and chilli jellies

Strawberry and chilli jellies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their unique flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar, pairs well with the sweet and spicy jellies.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the tartness of the jellies beautifully.
3. Pavlova: This light meringue dessert topped with fruit makes an ideal match alongside your jellies.
4. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad adds freshness that complements the spicy-sweet profile of the jellies.
5. Scones with Clotted Cream: The buttery scone paired with clotted cream provides richness that works wonderfully with strawberry flavors.
6. Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate mousse contrasts nicely with the lightness of strawberry and chilli jellies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry and chilli jellies can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your jellies turn out perfectly.

• Incorrect Measuring: Using inaccurate measurements of ingredients can lead to jellies that don’t set properly. Always use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Neglecting to Stir: Failing to stir the mixture while it cooks may cause uneven heating and clumping. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches the boiling point.
• Skipping the Setting Time: If you don’t allow enough time for the jellies to set in the fridge, they could end up too runny. Ensure you leave them to chill for at least 4 hours.
• Not Coating with Sugar: Forgetting to roll your jellies in caster sugar can result in a sticky texture. This step is crucial for a delightful finish.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Low-quality fruit puree can affect flavor and texture. Choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Best consumed within 1 week for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry and chilli jellies

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; allow to thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Strawberry and chilli jellies

• Oven: Preheat to low heat, then warm on a baking sheet until just soft.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (10-15 seconds), checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat in a non-stick pan, stirring constantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making strawberry and chilli jellies, here are some common questions.

What are Strawberry and chilli jellies?

Strawberry and chilli jellies are sweet treats made from strawberry puree infused with a spicy kick from Tabasco sauce, creating a unique flavor profile.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! You can substitute strawberries with other fruit purees like raspberries or mangoes for different flavors while keeping the chilli element.

How do I make strawberry puree?

Simply blend fresh strawberries until smooth. If desired, strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds for a smoother texture.

How can I customize my Strawberry and chilli jellies?

Consider adding herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist or using different types of pepper for varying levels of spice.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry and chilli jellies are not only visually appealing but also burst with flavor and personality. They’re perfect as petit fours or unique party treats. Feel free to customize them with different fruit purees or spice levels to suit your taste!