Rosebud Preserves – Mint Jelly

Mint jelly is a delightful condiment that is both fresh and sweet.

Made from mint leaves, sugar, and vinegar, it has a bright green hue and a distinctively refreshing flavour.

This jelly is the perfect accompaniment to lamb and mutton dishes, particularly when paired with a hearty roast or grilled chops. The sweetness of the jelly balances out the savoury flavour of the meat, while the mint adds a deliciously fresh twist.

In addition to lamb, mint jelly is also a great addition to roasted vegetables, particularly those with a stronger, earthier flavour like beetroot or sweet potato. It can also be used to add a sweet and tangy flavour to sauces and marinades for grilled meats like chicken or pork.

One of the most popular uses for mint jelly is as a condiment for traditional British dishes like roast beef and lamb. It’s also a popular addition to afternoon tea, where it can be used to add a sweet and refreshing twist to scones or biscuits.

Mint jelly is a versatile and delicious condiment that can add a touch of sweetness and freshness to a range of dishes. Whether you’re a fan of lamb, vegetables, or sweet treats, this jelly is a must-try for anyone looking to add a flavourful twist to their meals.

Here are a few suggestions for what to pair with mint jelly:

Roast lamb & mutton: As mentioned, mint jelly is a classic accompaniment to roast lamb. The sweet and tangy flavour of the jelly complements the savoury flavour of the meat, while the mint adds a refreshing twist.

Roasted vegetables: Mint jelly can also add a sweet and tangy flavour to roasted vegetables like beets, sweet potatoes, or carrots. It can be used to balance out the earthy flavour of the vegetables and add a fresh twist.

Grilled meats: Mint jelly can be used as a marinade or sauce for grilled meats like chicken or pork. The sweetness of the jelly helps to balance out the smoky flavour of the meat, while the mint adds a refreshing touch.

Cheese: Mint jelly can be a tasty addition to a cheese board, particularly when paired with strong or salty cheeses like cheddar. The sweetness of the jelly helps to cut through the sharpness of the cheese and adds a fruity contrast of flavour.

Desserts: Mint jelly can be a unique addition to sweet treats like ice cream or fruit salad. The freshness of the mint adds a refreshing twist to the sweetness of the dessert.

Mint jelly is a versatile condiment that can add a sweet and tangy twist to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, this jelly is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of freshness to their meals.

Here are some suggestions from British celebrity chefs for using mint jelly:

Jamie Oliver: Jamie Oliver recommends using mint jelly as a glaze for lamb chops. Simply mix mint jelly with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard, and brush it onto the lamb chops before grilling or roasting.

Nigella Lawson: Nigella Lawson suggests using mint jelly as a condiment for roast lamb. She mixes the jelly with red wine vinegar and serves it alongside the lamb, along with a side of roasted potatoes.

Mary Berry: Mary Berry’s recipe for roast lamb involves rubbing the lamb with garlic and rosemary, and then roasting it in the oven. She serves the lamb with a mint jelly sauce made by heating mint jelly with red wine, redcurrant jelly, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

Delia Smith: Delia Smith’s recipe for lamb and mint sauce involves mixing mint jelly with white wine vinegar, hot water, and a pinch of salt. She serves the sauce alongside roasted lamb and a side of minted peas.