Introduction
Making homemade jams and jellies is a great way to preserve fruits and enjoy them all year round. However, choosing the right pectin can be confusing, especially if you are new to canning. Two of the most popular pectins are MCP and Sure Jell. In this article, we will compare MCP pectin vs Sure Jell, and help you decide which one is better for your needs.
What is Pectin?
Pectin is a naturally occurring substance found in fruits and vegetables, and it is responsible for giving jams and jellies their characteristic texture. When heated with sugar and acid, pectin forms a gel that thickens the mixture and helps it set. Pectin is available in different forms, including liquid, powder, and crystals.
What is MCP Pectin?
MCP pectin is a type of pectin that is derived from citrus peel. It is a high-ester pectin, which means that it requires a high level of sugar and acid to set. MCP pectin is often used for making low-sugar jams and jellies, as it allows for a shorter cooking time and results in a fresher fruit flavor.
What is Sure Jell?
Sure Jell is a brand of pectin that is owned by Kraft Foods. It is a type of powdered pectin that is made from apple peels and citrus fruit. Sure Jell is a low-ester pectin, which means that it requires a lower level of sugar and acid to set. Sure Jell is often used for making traditional high-sugar jams and jellies, as it produces a firmer set and a sweeter taste.
How to Use MCP Pectin
To use MCP pectin, you need to follow the instructions carefully. Generally, you will need to mix the pectin with sugar and fruit, and then bring the mixture to a boil. The cooking time will depend on the amount of sugar and acid in the recipe. MCP pectin is not suitable for use with artificial sweeteners, as it requires natural sugars to set.
How to Use Sure Jell
Using Sure Jell is similar to using MCP pectin. You will need to mix the pectin with sugar and fruit, and then bring the mixture to a boil. However, with Sure Jell, you need to add the pectin to the fruit and sugar mixture before heating it. Sure Jell can be used with both natural and artificial sweeteners.
Pros and Cons of MCP Pectin
MCP pectin has several advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage is that it allows for the use of less sugar and results in a fresher fruit flavor. It also requires a shorter cooking time, which means that the fruit retains more of its nutritional value. However, MCP pectin can be more difficult to find in stores, and it may not produce a firm set for certain types of fruits.
Pros and Cons of Sure Jell
Sure Jell also has its pros and cons. The main advantage is that it produces a firmer set and a sweeter taste. It is also widely available in most grocery stores. However, Sure Jell requires a higher level of sugar and can result in a less fresh fruit flavor. It also requires a longer cooking time, which may affect the nutritional value of the fruit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between MCP pectin vs Sure Jell depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a fresher fruit flavor and want to use less sugar, MCP pectin may be the better option. However, if you want a firmer set and a sweeter taste, Sure Jell may be the way to go. Whichever pectin you choose, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and experiment with different recipes to find the perfect balance of sugar, acid, and flavor. Happy canning!