Canned Mint Jelly

1 cup packed fresh mint leaves, chopped

1 cup water

½ cup cider vinegar

3 ½ cups white sugar

5 drops green food coloring

1 (3 ounce) pouch liquid pectin

9 half pint canning jars with lids and rings

Mix the mint, water, vinegar, and sugar together in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat; quickly bring to a boil while stirring. Immediately remove from heat; stir the food coloring and pectin into the mixture. Return the pan to the heat; bring to a full boil for 30 seconds. Immediately remove from heat. Strain the mixture through 2 layers of damp cheesecloth.

Sterilize the jars and lids in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. Pack the strained liquid into the hot, sterilized jars, filling the jars to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a knife or a thin spatula around the insides of the jars after they have been filled to remove any air bubbles. Wipe the rims of the jars with a moist paper towel to remove any food residue. Top with lids and screw on rings.

Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil over high heat; carefully lower the jars into the pot using a holder. Leave a 2-inch space between the jars. Pour in more boiling water if necessary until the water level is at least 1 inch above the tops of the jars. Bring the water to a full boil, cover the pot, and process for 15 minutes.