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lilly pilly jelly recipe

Lilly Pilly Jelly

Lilly Pilly Jelly is a flavorful, tangy-sweet preserve made from the unique lilly pilly berry, native to Australia. The jelly perfectly balances tartness and sweetness, making it an ideal spread for toast, a topping for desserts, or an accompaniment to cheeses. This easy-to-make recipe captures the essence of these berries and offers numerous health benefits, including high antioxidants and vitamin C.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert Topping
Cuisine: Australian
Calories: 70

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups of fresh lilly pilly berries
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 lemon for zest and juice
  • 2 cups of sugar adjust to taste
  • 1 packet of pectin for setting

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cold plate (for setting test)
  • Sterilized jars and lids
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Berries: Wash the lilly pilly berries thoroughly, removing any stems and leaves. Place them in a large saucepan with 2 cups of water.
    lilly pilly jelly recipe
  2. Cook the Berries: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the berries burst and soften.
  3. Extract the Juice: Strain the cooked mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove seeds and skins. Press gently to extract as much juice as possible.
  4. Make the Jelly: Return the strained juice to the saucepan. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, and bring the mixture to a boil. After boiling, add the pectin and stir well.
  5. Test the Jelly: Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. To check if it’s set, place a spoonful on a cold plate—run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s ready.
  6. Jar the Jelly: Pour the jelly into sterilized jars, seal, and let them cool. The jelly will continue to set as it cools.
    lilly pilly jelly recipe

Notes

  • Storage: Store the jelly in sterilized jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.
  • Adjust Sweetness: You can adjust the sugar to your preference, especially if you like a more tart jelly.
  • Pectin Alternatives: If you prefer not to use pectin, you can cook the jelly longer to help it naturally thicken.lilly pilly jelly recipe