How to Make Tomato Jelly

Tasty canned and fresh tomatoes on wooden table

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If you are looking for a different type of jelly that compliments meats or fresh bread, make tomato jelly from your garden harvest or store-bought juice. The jelly takes on a flavor based on the seasoning used during processing. Hot jelly with Tabasco sauce adds kick to red meat and chicken, while spiced tomato jelly makes a zesty spread for bread, muffins or rolls.

Measure the tomato juice, lemon juice and sugar, and pour it into a large saucepan. Make one batch at a time, instead of doubling the amounts, for best results.

Add 2 tsp. to 1 tbsp. Tabasco sauce to make a spicy tomato jelly. An alternative is adding cinnamon and cloves, for a mild spiced jelly.

Heat the mixture on high until it comes to a boil, making sure to stir frequently to prevent it from boiling over. Taste the liquid, and adjust the flavor with more seasoning, if needed.

Add powdered pectin and stir until dissolved. Keep the tomato mixture on the stove and bring it back to a boil for one minute. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Remove the mixture from the heat and stir for three minutes to cool. Skim off any foam with a mesh spoon or small scoop strainer. Let the mixture cool completely, until it is forms a jelly consistency.