Cranberry Jelly. Mrs. G. A. Livingston. Recipe

Cranberry Jelly Recipe:
Mrs. G. A. Livingston's Version

Introduction:
Cranberry jelly is a delightful addition to any holiday meal or gathering, providing a tangy and sweet contrast to savory dishes. It has been a beloved tradition in many households for generations. One such recipe has been passed down through the years and is attributed to Mrs. G.A. Livingston. This particular recipe is simple yet incredibly flavorful, allowing the natural tartness of cranberries to shine through. In this recipe, one pound of sugar is used for each pint of juice, resulting in a perfect balance of sweetness. Read on to discover the secrets of making Mrs. Livingston's Cranberry Jelly.

Ingredients:
- 4 pounds of cranberries
- 4 pints of water
- 4 pounds of sugar

Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries under cold water to remove any debris.
2. Place the cranberries in a large pot and add the water.
3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let the cranberries simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they burst and become soft.
4. Carefully pour the cranberries and liquid through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, allowing the juice to collect in a separate container. Use the back of a spoon to press the cranberries and extract as much juice as possible.
5. Measure the collected juice and pour it back into the pot. For each pint of juice, add one pound of sugar.
6. Stir the mixture well until the sugar dissolves completely.
7. Bring the cranberry juice and sugar mixture to a rapid boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
8. Continue boiling the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. To test if the jelly is ready, drop a small amount onto a cold plate or into cold water. If it doesn't mix with the water and sets, it is done.
9. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the jelly during the boiling process.
10. Remove the pot from the heat and let the jelly cool for a few minutes.
11. Carefully ladle the hot cranberry jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a ¼-inch headspace at the top.
12. Clean the rims of the jars, ensuring they are free from any jelly residue. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands until they are fingertip-tight.
13. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure safe canning and proper sealing.
14. After processing, remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely before testing the seals by pressing the center of each lid. If it doesn't flex, the seal is secure.

Fun Facts:
1. Cranberries are native to North America and were used by Native Americans for various purposes, including food, dyes, and medicine.
2. Cranberries contain natural pectin, a substance that helps the jelly set when combined with sugar and heat.
3. The popularity of cranberry jelly can be traced back to the early American settlers, who learned about this fruit from Native Americans and incorporated it into their holiday feasts.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed making and savoring Mrs. G.A. Livingston's Cranberry Jelly, you might also enjoy trying these related dishes:

1. Cranberry Sauce: Similar to cranberry jelly, this sauce is made by cooking cranberries with sugar and other flavorings until they break down, resulting in a chunky and flavorful condiment.
2. Cranberry Chutney: A tangy and sweet relish made with cranberries, spices, and other fruits like apples, raisins, or oranges. It adds a delightful complexity to any dish.
3. Cranberry Jam: This variation involves cooking cranberries with sugar and sometimes adding additional ingredients such as orange zest or spices like cinnamon for a burst of flavor.
4. Cranberry Compote: A versatile dish made by slowly simmering cranberries with sugar and a liquid (such as orange juice or red wine) until they are soft and the mixture thickens. This compote can be used as a topping for desserts, a spread for toast, or a sauce for meats.

Now that you have mastered Mrs. Livingston's Cranberry Jelly, you can explore these variations to continue enjoying the delicious tangy flavor of cranberries throughout the year.