Cherry jelly

Cherry Jelly Recipe - A Refined and Delicious Dessert

Have you ever thought about delighting your family and friends with a dessert that combines the intense flavor of cherries with a fine and elegant texture? Cherry jelly is a perfect choice, being easy to prepare and having a stunning visual impact. I will show you how to make this delicious jelly step by step, so you can achieve a perfect result every time.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 2-3 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g cherry syrup or cherry compote (preferably homemade)
- Approximately 1 ½ packets of gelatin (or 20 g, depending on the type of gelatin used)
- 200 g additional syrup (if you want to sweeten it more)
- Cherries from jam or compote (optional, pitted)
- Whipped cream for decoration (for an elegant look and creamy taste)

A bit of history:
Jelly is a dish that has been appreciated for centuries, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It is a dessert that has evolved from simple fruit gelatins to refined delicacies on festive tables. Today, jellies are often associated with special occasions, but they can easily be made every day, bringing a touch of joy to daily life.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the gelatin:
Start by placing the gelatin in a double boiler. This step is crucial to avoid lumps. In a heat-resistant bowl, add approximately 1 ½ packets of gelatin. Pour 200 g of cherry syrup on top and mix well. Place the bowl over the double boiler, ensuring that the water does not touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir constantly until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

2. Combining with the syrup:
Once the gelatin is fully dissolved, add the gelatin mixture to the remaining cherry syrup (500 g). Make sure the syrup is at room temperature to avoid affecting the gelling process. Mix well so that the gelatin is evenly incorporated.

3. Adding cherries (optional):
If you want to add an extra note of flavor and texture, now is the time to add some cherries from jam or compote, pitted. These will add a delicious taste and a pleasant presentation, but they are not mandatory.

4. Cooling:
Pour the mixture into molds or a serving bowl. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until the jelly is completely set. You will notice that the jelly becomes firm and shiny, a true feast for the eyes.

5. Serving:
When the jelly is ready, take it out of the fridge. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added creaminess. Another idea is to serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or a cheesecake, to create a contrast of textures and explore flavor combinations.

Useful tips:
- If you want a less sweet jelly, you can reduce the amount of additional syrup. You can also experiment with other types of fruit syrups.
- Make sure to use high-quality gelatin to achieve a perfect texture. Animal gelatin dissolves better than plant-based gelatin, but both types can work.
- For an elegant look, you can add a few fresh mint leaves on top of the jelly when serving.

Nutritional values:
This cherry jelly is low in calories, making it a dynamic choice for a healthy dessert. One serving (approximately 100 g) contains an average of 60 calories, being rich in antioxidants and vitamins due to the cherry content. It is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy a dessert without compromising health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits to make jelly?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, or peaches. Each type of fruit will add a unique flavor to your jelly.

2. Can the jelly be frozen?
It is recommended to avoid freezing the jelly, as the texture may change. It is best to consume it fresh.

3. Can I use vegetarian gelatin?
Yes, you can use agar-agar as an alternative to gelatin, but the recipe may require adjustments in terms of quantity and preparation method.

I hope this cherry jelly recipe has sparked your cooking appetite! Don't hesitate to share the result with your loved ones and enjoy every bite. Enjoy your meal!