After a bit of an equipment fiasco on Tuesday, I was ready to begin today. While some of you may have other methods, here is how my jelly experiment went, in phases.
Phase 1 - chop chop and measure
I washed and diced an excessive number of hot and bell peppers. The recipe I was using called for four cups. Thank heavens I have one of those Vidalia onion choppers, there's no way I could have diced it all by hand, and it has a handy measuring thing on the side so you can see how many cups you've already chopped.
Phase 2 - wash three times
Not the peppers, me. You see, Xavier decided he was hungry right around the end of Phase 1, and I figured I'd better feed him before I moved on to the cooking phase. I washed my hands thoroughly once, and just to be sure I stuck my finger on the end of my tongue. Still caused a burn, so I ended up washing my hands twice more. I eventually want Xavier to like hotter foods, but at one month of age it may be a little early to start mixing jalapeno juice with breast milk.
Phase 3 - cook
Peppers, vinegar, pectin, and sugar, all together in a pot, with me staring at it intently waiting for it to boil. The recipe was very specific about the type of boil and exactly for how long. Thank goodness it was specific for beginners like me!
Phase 4 - pour into jars
I had the foresight to purchase a canning funnel and I used a ladle. As it is, my kitchen counter is still extremely sticky. I'm apparently messy.
Phase 5 - process
There was this debate about using the inversion method or the boiling water method. I didn't have the debate, other people online who had already done the recipe had it for me, and it seemed the clear winner was the boiling water method.
Phase 6 - take a picture and pat self on back
I did it! My kitchen is a disaster and I have no idea if it tastes good, but I will soon be getting Seth to try it out and I'll let you know :) And I have six jars of the stuff, so if anyone else is feeling adventurous...
