If you’re looking for a delightful way to capture the essence of summer, look no further than Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves. This vibrant and refreshing jelly is not only simple to make, but it also bursts with the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh watermelon and zesty lime. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a kitchen novice, this recipe is perfect for busy days or when you want a sweet treat to enjoy all year round.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 0 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 34 g
Sodium: 5 mg
Why Make Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves
Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves are a fantastic choice for numerous reasons. First, they provide a delicious way to utilize ripe watermelon when it’s in season. This jelly is low in fat and can be made with less sugar thanks to the use of low sugar pectin, making it a healthier choice for enjoying sweet flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can spread it on toast for breakfast, use it as a topping for desserts, or even incorporate it into savory dishes.
How to Make Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves Step by Step
Ingredients
1.5–2 kilograms seedless watermelon, rind removed and chopped
400–600 grams white granulated sugar
120 milliliters bottled lime juice or 180 milliliters freshly squeezed lime juice
1 box (approx. 49 grams) Sure Jell Low Sugar Pectin
Directions
Process the chopped watermelon in a blender until fully puréed and smooth. Strain the purée through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a jelly strainer bag into a large bowl or jug. Measure 950 milliliters (4 cups) of strained watermelon juice; reserve any excess juice for another use.
Transfer the measured watermelon juice to a saucepan. Add lime juice and pectin. Whisk thoroughly over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Boil the juice-pectin-lime mixture for 1 minute while whisking constantly. Gradually whisk in the sugar, stirring to dissolve. Bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil and cook for 1 additional minute.
Carefully ladle the hot jelly mixture into sterilized jars, leaving 6 millimeters (1/4 inch) headspace at the top of each jar. Wipe jar rims and sides with a clean kitchen towel. Secure lids and rings until fingertip tight. Allow jars to cool at room temperature. The jelly will thicken and set over 12–24 hours. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3 weeks if not canning. For shelf storage, process sealed jars in a hot water canner for 10 minutes (15 minutes above 1,800 meters elevation). Transfer to a towel-lined surface, leaving 2.5 centimeters between jars. Once cooled, check seals. Refrigerate any unsealed jars; store sealed jars in a cool, dry place for up to 18 months.
How to Serve Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves
Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves can elevate your meals with their burst of flavor. Spread it over warm biscuits or toast for a delicious breakfast treat. You can also pair it with grilled chicken or fish as a vibrant glaze. For dessert, serve it over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a refreshing sweet finish.
How to Store Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves
For optimal freshness, store any opened jars of Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves in the refrigerator. Unopened jars can be kept in a cool, dry place. If you plan to freeze the jelly, use freezer-safe containers, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Always check for any signs of spoilage before use.
Expert Tips for Cooking Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves
- Use a high-powered blender for a smoother purée.
- Experiment with the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- Ensure all equipment is sterilized to avoid spoilage.
- Taste the mixture before pouring into jars; you can adjust the lime juice for tartness.
- Consider adding a hint of fresh mint for a unique flavor twist.
Delicious Variations of Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves
For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the jelly mixture. For a herbed variation, try incorporating fresh basil or mint during the blending process. If you want a citrus twist, blend in the zest of the lime before cooking.
Conclusion
Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves are a delightful way to savor summer’s sweetness at any time of year. With its refreshing flavor, simple preparation, and versatility, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their preserves game. Enjoy making and sharing this wonderful jelly with friends and family!
Watermelon Lime Jelly Preserves
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5–2 kilograms seedless watermelon, rind removed and chopped
- 400–600 grams white granulated sugar
- 120 milliliters bottled lime juice
- 180 milliliters freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 box (approx. 49 grams) Sure Jell Low Sugar Pectin
Instructions
Preparation
- Process the chopped watermelon in a blender until fully puréed and smooth.
- Strain the purée through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a jelly strainer bag into a large bowl or jug.
- Measure 950 milliliters (4 cups) of strained watermelon juice; reserve any excess juice for another use.
Cooking
- Transfer the measured watermelon juice to a saucepan.
- Add lime juice and pectin. Whisk thoroughly over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Boil the juice-pectin-lime mixture for 1 minute while whisking constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the sugar, stirring to dissolve.
- Bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil and cook for 1 additional minute.
Filling Jars
- Carefully ladle the hot jelly mixture into sterilized jars, leaving 6 millimeters (1/4 inch) headspace at the top of each jar.
- Wipe jar rims and sides with a clean kitchen towel.
- Secure lids and rings until fingertip tight.
- Allow jars to cool at room temperature.
- The jelly will thicken and set over 12–24 hours.
- Refrigerate and enjoy within 3 weeks if not canning.
Storage
- For shelf storage, process sealed jars in a hot water canner for 10 minutes (15 minutes above 1,800 meters elevation).
- Transfer to a towel-lined surface, leaving 2.5 centimeters between jars.
- Once cooled, check seals.
- Refrigerate any unsealed jars; store sealed jars in a cool, dry place for up to 18 months.
