| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 343 | 0g | 0g | 89g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 89g | 1g | 0g | 0g |
There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from transforming an unusual ingredient into something both delicious and versatile, and that’s precisely what you’ll experience with this Cactus Pear Jelly recipe. The first time I encountered cactus pears was during a trip to an old farmers’ market with Laura and our little one. Intrigued by their vibrant magenta color and unique texture, I was eager to experiment with them in the kitchen. The result was beyond rewarding.
Unexpected Health Benefits
Not only is this Cactus Pear Jelly a feast for the eyes and palate, but it also boasts a range of health benefits. Cactus pears, also known as prickly pears, are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and E, and dietary fiber. These can aid in boosting your immune system, promote digestive health, and improve skin condition. When combined with lemon juice, which is packed with vitamin C and has alkaline properties, this jelly becomes a powerhouse of nutrition. Even the sugar in the recipe, when used in moderation, provides a quick energy boost, making this jelly a sensible sweet treat.
A Multi-Purpose Delight
This Cactus Pear Jelly isn’t just an exotic spread for your morning toast. It’s also a fabulous addition to a cheese board, offering a sweet contrast to sharp and creamy cheeses like aged cheddar or brie. Moreover, it pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, adding a touch of sweetness that complements savory dishes. If you’re a fan of desserts, consider using it as a filling for cake layers or swirled into yogurt for a fancy yet simple treat. This jelly’s versatility is comparable to that of other fruit preserves, such as raspberry jam or apple butter, but with a distinct flavor that stands out.
The ease of making this jelly is another reason why it’s a favorite in our household. With just a few simple ingredients—cactus pear pulp, lemon juice, granulated sugar, powdered fruit pectin, and water—you can create a jar of homemade goodness. The method is uncomplicated, making it a fun activity for families. Even our young son enjoys watching the transformation of prickly fruits into a beautifully set jelly, and it’s moments like these that I treasure.
If you’re curious to learn more about the nutritional benefits of cactus pears, you might find this article interesting. Another great resource for experimenting with lemon juice in various recipes can be found here.
Try your hand at this Cactus Pear Jelly recipe, and you might just find that it becomes a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire, much like it has in ours.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups cactus pear pulp (about 8-10 cactus pears)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 6 cups granulated sugar
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin
- 3 cups water
Method
Step One
Peel and chop the cactus pears into small pieces. Place them in a large saucepan and add 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes until the fruit is soft. Use a potato masher to mash the fruit, then strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to obtain the cactus pear pulp.
Step Two
Measure out 4 cups of cactus pear pulp and pour it into a large pot. Add the 1/4 cup of lemon juice and the packet of powdered fruit pectin, stirring well to combine.
Step Three
Place the pot on the stove over high heat. Keep stirring constantly to bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down.
Step Four
Add the 6 cups of granulated sugar all at once, continuing to stir. Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil and boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Step Five
Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface.
Step Six
Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the jar rims clean and seal with lids and bands.
Step Seven
Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely.
Step Eight
Once the jars are cool, check the seals. Store the cactus pear jelly in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.
