Is Pepper Jelly Vegan? + Bonus Plant-Based Recipes with Pepper Jelly

It’s a common misconception that anyone following a vegan or plant-based lifestyle misses out on the most delicious foods. Fortunately, giving up all animal products doesn’t require a large sacrifice.

These days, it is increasingly easier for people to find vegan-friendly versions of their favorite products. From veggie burgers and meatless chicken to plant-based cheeses and nut milk, it’s easy to find tasty treats that don’t involve animals. 

But how can you make vegan food taste even better? With pepper jelly, of course! 

Grandma Jones’ Pepper Jelly: a Sweet and Spicy Vegan Condiment

Pepper jelly is a preserve made with various peppers, sugars, and salt in a vinegar base. It is important to note that not all pepper jelly is automatically vegan; some recipes may use gelatin, which is typically made from animal collagen. 

Grandma Jones’s Pepper Jelly is thickened with pectin, a naturally occurring starch derived from fruits such as apples and citrus. Pectin allows jellies and jams to gel; without any pectin, your vegan pepper jelly would be a vegan syrup.  

We currently offer 8 unique and tasty vegan pepper jelly varieties that are the perfect addition to any plant-based kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a new tofu marinade or want to spice up your vegetables, our pepper jellies will take your kitchen to the next level! 

Are you looking for inspiration on how to include vegan pepper jelly in some plant-based recipes? Here are two easy vegan-friendly recipes we really enjoy! 

Vegan Pepper Jelly Glazed Carrots 

Here is a vegan twist on sweet and spicy glazed carrots! This side dish pairs well with any meal, especially for holiday gatherings. 

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs baby carrots
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons margarine or vegan butter
• 1 jar Grandma Jones’ Pepper Jelly 
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions: 

1. Add carrots and vegetable broth to a large saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often. You want the carrots to get tender and most of the broth to evaporate. If your broth evaporates before the carrots are tender, add more broth. 
2. Once carrots are crisp tender, add pepper jelly and margarine. Continue cooking until the mixture has reduced some and the carrots are soft to your preference. 
3. Season with black pepper to your liking and serve hot. 

Tips: 

• If you prefer a thicker glaze, add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon of cold water to the skillet after step 2. 
• Leftovers will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Vegan Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese Dip 

Pepper jelly and cream cheese is one of the best flavor combinations for an appetizer (although we may be a bit biased). Whether you’re avoiding dairy for health or ethical reasons, you can still enjoy this classic flavor combination with this plant-based dip recipe!  

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups raw cashews, soaked overnight
• 1 lemon, juiced
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
• ¼ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup pepper jelly 

Instructions: 

1. Soak your cashews overnight in cold, filtered water. After soaking, drain and rinse your cashews.
2. Add your cashews, lemon juice, salt, nutritional yeast, and 2 tablespoons of water to a food processor or high-power blender. Pulse on high until everything is combined and has a smooth consistency. You may need to stop and scrape the sides with a spatula during this step. 
3. Add red pepper flakes and tomatoes to the food processor and pulse until completely mixed. 
4. Plate your cream cheese mixture in a serving bowl of your choice and top with pepper jelly of your choice. 

Tips:

• Our traditional pepper jelly works well with this recipe for a classic taste. For a fruity dip, omit the sundried tomatoes and substitute for dried cranberries and our cranberry pepper jelly.   
• This dip can be served with crackers, pretzels, or crostini. Use leftovers for a bagel schmear! 
• Leftovers are best if consumed within a couple of days. 

Pepper Jelly Makes a Delicious Vegan Dip, Spread, Glaze, or Marinade

Whether you’re looking to entertain guests, find new snack ideas, or elevate your favorite recipes, even the pickiest palates will love Grandma Jones’ Pepper Jelly. With so many varieties to choose from, you’ll surely find a favorite! 

Looking for more ideas on how to use pepper jelly? Be sure to check out our blog.