Mandarin Orange Jelly

Orange Jelly, or Mandarin Orange Jelly, captures the essence of summer in every spoonful. This homemade jam bursts with vibrant citrus flavors and is perfect for breakfast spreads, desserts, or as a delightful gift. Its bright color and refreshing taste make it suitable for various occasions, from picnics to holiday gatherings. Plus, making your own jelly allows you to control the sweetness and enjoy a truly unique flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create your own delicious jelly at home.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh mandarin and lemon juice creates a bright and zesty taste.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it on toast, in desserts, or as a topping for yogurt—endless possibilities!
• Perfect for Gifting: Homemade jelly makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family during special occasions.
• Preserve Summer’s Essence: Capture the fresh flavors of summer in each jar for enjoyment year-round.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Mandarin Orange Jelly, it’s important to gather the right tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottom pan
• Measuring cups
• Sterilized jars with lids
• Ladle
• Paper towels
• Hot water bath canner

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottom pan: Helps distribute heat evenly while preventing scorching during boiling.
• Sterilized jars with lids: Essential for preserving the jelly and prolonging its shelf life.
• Ladle: Makes transferring hot jelly into jars easy without spilling.

Ingredients

Orange Jelly has all the flavors of summertime packed into a delicious jar of homemade jam! This is an easy jam to make that is full of bright citrus flavors!

For the Jelly

• 4 cups fresh mandarin juice (don’t strain, just pull out seeds and big pulp pieces)
• 7 cups sugar
• ¼ cup lemon juice (only use freshly squeezed lemon juice)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 package Liquid Certo Pectin (Pectin)

How to Make Mandarin Orange Jelly

Step 1: Prepare the Jars

1. Sterilize the jars, lids, and rings to prepare for jam. This ensures that your jelly stays fresh longer.

Step 2: Juice the Fruits

1. Juice the mandarins and lemons until you have exactly 4 cups of mandarin juice and ¼ cup of lemon juice.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Measure the juices accurately.
2. In a large heavy-bottom pan, combine mandarin juice, 7 cups sugar, and butter.
3. Place over high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
4. Bring to a full rolling boil and boil hard for exactly 1 minute while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Add Pectin

1. Add 1 package Liquid Certo.
2. Bring back to a boil and boil hard for 1 minute more.

Step 5: Fill Jars

1. Remove from heat immediately.
2. Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace at the top.

Step 6: Seal Jars

1. Wipe off any residue from the tops of jars using a damp paper towel.
2. Securely add lids and screw on rings.
3. Process in a hot water bath for 10 minutes to seal properly.

This recipe yields approximately 7-8 pint jars of Mandarin Orange Jelly, perfect for enjoying throughout the year!

How to Serve Mandarin Orange Jelly

Mandarin Orange Jelly is a versatile treat that can enhance many dishes or stand alone as a delightful spread. Here are some creative ways to serve this zesty jelly.

On Toast or Bread

• Use Mandarin Orange Jelly as a spread on warm, toasted bread or bagels for a refreshing breakfast.
• Pair it with cream cheese for a deliciously creamy and tangy combination.

With Cheese

• Serve the jelly alongside a cheese platter featuring soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
• The sweet and tangy flavors of the jelly contrast beautifully with the richness of the cheese.

In Desserts

• Drizzle Mandarin Orange Jelly over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a quick dessert.
• Use it as a filling for cakes, pastries, or tarts for an added citrus punch.

As a Glaze

• Brush the jelly over roasted meats like chicken or pork for a glossy finish and added flavor.
• Mix it with soy sauce for an Asian-inspired glaze that pairs well with grilled fish.

In Salad Dressings

• Whisk Mandarin Orange Jelly into vinaigrettes to create a sweet and tangy dressing for fresh salads.
• Combine it with olive oil and vinegar for an easy homemade salad topper.

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How to Perfect Mandarin Orange Jelly

Creating the perfect Mandarin Orange Jelly requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your jelly turns out amazing every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh mandarin oranges to get the best flavor in your jelly.
• Measure accurately: Proper measurements of juice and sugar are crucial for achieving the right consistency.
• Boil correctly: Ensure you boil the mixture hard as instructed; this helps achieve proper gel formation.
• Sterilize jars properly: Sterilizing jars ensures your jelly lasts longer and prevents spoilage.
• Adjust acidity if needed: If your mandarins are particularly sweet, consider adding more lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Mandarin Orange Jelly

Pairing side dishes with Mandarin Orange Jelly can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here’s a list of complementary sides that work well together.

1. Savory Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits that provide a buttery contrast to the sweetness of the jelly.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with the bright flavors of the jelly.
3. Green Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens, nuts, and citrus dressing complements the jelly perfectly.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies bring out earthy flavors that balance well with Mandarin Orange Jelly.
5. Pork Tenderloin – Grilled or roasted pork enhances the sweet notes of the jelly while adding protein to your meal.
6. Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses adds richness that harmonizes beautifully with the zesty jelly.
7. Rice Pilaf – A light rice dish can provide a neutral base that lets the flavors of the jelly shine through.
8. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad offers comfort and pairs well with fruity accompaniments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mandarin Orange Jelly can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind. Here are some tips to ensure your jelly turns out perfectly.

• Using bottled juice: Fresh mandarin juice is key for flavor. Always use freshly squeezed juice for the best results.
• Not measuring accurately: Precision matters in jelly-making. Use a proper measuring cup for both juices and sugar to achieve the right consistency.
• Skipping sterilization: Sterilizing jars is crucial for preservation. Always sterilize jars, lids, and rings before filling them with jelly.
• Overcooking the jelly: Boiling too long can result in a tough texture. Follow timing closely and boil for exactly 1 minute after adding pectin.
• Ignoring headspace: Leaving too little headspace can cause overflow during sealing. Ensure you leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top of each jar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store your Mandarin Orange Jelly in the refrigerator if you plan to use it within a few weeks.
• item Use clean, airtight containers or jars to maintain freshness.
• item Properly sealed jelly can last for up to 3 months in the fridge.

Freezing Mandarin Orange Jelly

• item For long-term storage, freeze your jelly in freezer-safe containers or jars.
• item Leave some headspace (about 1/2 inch) as jelly expands when frozen.
• item Properly frozen jelly can last up to a year.

Reheating Mandarin Orange Jelly

• item Oven: Place the jar on a baking sheet and warm at low temperature until heated through.
• item Microwave: Use short bursts of heat, stirring in between, to avoid hot spots.
• item Stovetop: Gently heat in a saucepan over low heat until melted; stir continuously.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mandarin Orange Jelly?

Mandarin Orange Jelly is a sweet spread made from fresh mandarin juice, sugar, and pectin. It has a bright citrus flavor that captures summer in every bite.

How do I know when my jelly has set?

The jelly should be firm but slightly jiggly when cooled. You can also do the spoon test by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; if it holds its shape after cooling, it’s ready.

Can I substitute other citrus fruits?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on mandarins, you can experiment with oranges or clementines for different flavors.

How long does homemade Mandarin Orange Jelly last?

When properly sealed and stored in the refrigerator, homemade jelly can last for up to 3 months. Frozen jelly can last up to a year.

Can I reduce sugar in this recipe?

Reducing sugar may affect the set of your jelly since sugar plays a role in preserving and thickening it. If you want less sweetness, consider using alternative sweeteners designed for preserves.

Final Thoughts

Mandarin Orange Jelly is not just delicious; it’s versatile and perfect for various uses from spreads on breakfast toast to fillings in desserts. The bright flavors make it an excellent addition to your pantry. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices or other fruits! Enjoy making this delightful treat!