Neapolitan Jelly Recipe

Neapolitan Jelly Recipe:

Neapolitan Jelly is a delightful and vibrant fruit jelly that combines the flavors of strawberries, raspberries, currants, and red cherries. This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Before we delve into the recipe, let's explore some fascinating facts about Neapolitan Jelly. The name "Neapolitan" is derived from Napoli, which is the Italian word for Naples, a city in southern Italy known for its rich culinary traditions. This jelly is believed to have originated in the region and has become a popular dessert across the globe.

Now, let's dive into making this delicious Neapolitan Jelly!

Ingredients:
- Equal quantities of fully ripe strawberries, raspberries, currants, and red cherries
- Sugar (allow a pound of sugar per pint of juice)

Instructions:

1. Wash all the fruits thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves. Ensure that the fruits are fully ripe for the best flavor.

2. Pit the red cherries, taking care to preserve the juice. This step is crucial as the cherry juice contributes to the overall flavor and color of the jelly.

3. Place all the fruits in a large pot and gently mash them to release their juices. You can use a potato masher or a fork for this purpose.

4. Once the fruits are mashed, transfer them to a jelly-press or a bag. Squeeze and press the fruits to extract as much juice as possible. This juice will form the base of the Neapolitan Jelly.

5. Measure the extracted juice and pour a pint of it into a large saucepan. For every pint of juice, add a pound of sugar. The sugar amount can be adjusted depending on the desired sweetness.

6. Heat the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. This will usually take a few minutes.

7. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

8. Boil the mixture for approximately 10-15 minutes or until it reaches the desired consistency. Keep in mind that the jelly will firm up further once cooled.

9. To check if the jelly is ready, you can perform the "wrinkle test." Place a small spoonful of the jelly on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. If the jelly wrinkles when touched lightly, it has reached the desired setting point.

10. Once the jelly has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface.

11. Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly with lids.

12. Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator. The Neapolitan Jelly will continue to set and develop its flavors over the next few hours or days.

Neapolitan Jelly is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Spread it on toast, use it as a filling for pastries or cakes, or simply serve it alongside cheese and crackers for a delightful dessert platter. The vibrant colors and sweet, tangy flavors of the jelly are sure to impress your friends and family.

Similar recipe dishes that you might enjoy include Strawberry Jam, Raspberry Jelly, and Cherry Preserves. Each of these recipes highlights the unique flavors of the individual fruits, while still providing a delicious spread or topping option.

So, gather your ripe strawberries, raspberries, currants, and red cherries, and embark on a delightful culinary journey with this Neapolitan Jelly recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!