To make wild chokecherry jelly, start by gathering the ripe cherries from a wild chokecherry tree. These cherries are small and dark red in color. It’s important to note that chokecherries are quite tart, so they are not typically eaten raw but are perfect for making jelly.
Once you have collected enough cherries, it’s time to extract the juice. Begin by cleaning the cherries thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. You can do this by rinsing them under running water and patting them dry with a towel.
Next, place the cleaned cherries in a large pot. Add just enough water to cover the cherries. The water will help to soften the fruits and release their juice during the cooking process. Be careful not to add too much water, as it will dilute the flavor of the juice.
Now, it’s time to simmer the cherries over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking. As the cherries cook, they will become soft and release their juice. This process typically takes around 30 minutes, but keep an eye on the pot to avoid overcooking the cherries.
Once the cherries are soft and have released their juice, it’s time to strain the mixture. To do this, you can use a jelly bag or a colander lined with cheesecloth. Gently pour the cooked cherries into the bag or colander, allowing the juice to strain into a bowl beneath. The jelly bag or cheesecloth will catch any solids, leaving you with pure cherry juice.
You may need to let the juice strain for a while to ensure you get as much liquid as possible. You can gently press down on the cherries with a spoon or spatula to extract any remaining juice.
Once you have collected all the juice, it’s time to proceed with making the jelly. You can follow a traditional jelly recipe, which typically involves adding sugar and pectin to the juice and boiling it until it reaches the desired consistency. The specific amounts of sugar and pectin will depend on the recipe you are following, so be sure to consult it for guidance.
Remember to sterilize your jars and lids before filling them with the jelly to ensure proper preservation. You can do this by boiling them in water or using the sanitize function on your dishwasher.
Making wild chokecherry jelly can be a rewarding process, as it allows you to utilize the natural abundance of these tart fruits. The end result is a delicious jelly that can be enjoyed on toast, scones, or used as a glaze for meats. Experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or cloves, or even incorporating other fruits like apples or raspberries.
Enjoy the process of making your own homemade jelly and savor the unique flavor of wild chokecherries.
