Delia Smith Quince Jelly Recipe

Delve into the delightful process of making Delia Smith's inspired Quince Jelly, a sweet and aromatic treasure that beautifully captures the essence of quince fruit. This jelly, with its rich and velvety texture, spreads easily on toast, crackers, and pairs wonderfully with various dishes, offering both sweet and savory delights.

Ingredients for the Quince Jelly

• Quinces: 2 kg (6 quinces), coarsely chopped
• Water: 1.75 litres (7 cups)
• White sugar: Approximately 1.1 kg (5 cups), adjusted based on the juice extracted
• Lemon juice: 125 ml (½ cup), strained

Preparation Instructions

1. Cooking the Quinces: Begin by combining the quinces with water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about an hour until the quinces are soft.
2. Extracting the Juice: Strain the cooked quinces through a fine cloth overnight, allowing the liquid to drip slowly without squeezing, to avoid cloudiness.
3. Preparing the Jelly: Measure the extracted quince liquid and mix it with an equal amount of sugar. Combine these in a large saucepan, stir over heat until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil and continue until the jelly sets upon testing.
4. Bottling: Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars and seal them while still hot for preservation.

Storage and Reheating

For best preservation, store your quince jelly in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and try to use it within a month to enjoy its fresh taste. The jelly can last up to a year when sealed and stored properly.

Nutritional Information

A tablespoon of quince jelly typically contains:

• Calories: 48 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Sugar: 12 g

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a food processor for chopping quinces? Yes, a food processor can be used to chop the quinces, including cores and peels for added pectin, which is crucial for setting the jelly.
• How do I know if the jelly has reached the setting point? Perform the "wrinkle test" by placing a spoonful of jelly on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, it's ready.
• Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe? It's advisable to stick to the recipe as sugar not only sweetens but also helps in setting and preserving the jelly.
• How long can I store the quince jelly? Properly sealed and stored, quince jelly can last up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a month.
• Can I add other flavors to the jelly? Yes, adding spices or citrus peels can introduce new flavors, enhancing the jelly's aroma and taste.

Indulge in the satisfying craft of making homemade quince jelly, following this inspired recipe by Delia Smith. It's a delightful project that results in a versatile and exquisite spread, elevating your meals and treats with its unique flavor​​​​​​.