What is it? A Bit On The Side Green Jalapeño Jelly (€3.50, 106g).
What’s good about it? Instead of overwhelming your spring lamb with cloying mint jelly or mouth-puckering mint sauce, try this Irish-made alternative that will bring a little bit of heat and fruity flavour to your plate instead.
Hilary McGrath makes the Bit On The Side range of savoury jellies in a production unit at her home in Oldcastle, Co Meath. Having lived for 10 years in Canada, where jalapeño jellies were widely available, she started making them for family and friends on her return to Ireland, and went into commercial production in 2019.
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How do I use it? It is very versatile but really shines with ham and with egg dishes, too. Mix it with cream cheese or mayo for a tasty dip. There is a red jalapeño version too with a bit more heat.
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Where can I buy it? It is available online at abitontheside.ie, where you can also find a list of stockists, including some SuperValu stores in Dublin and Meath, Get Fresh stores in Dublin and selected independents
Anything else? The range also includes cider and sage; basil; port and balsamic, and rosé and pink peppercorn jellies. A gift box of four jellies plus a wooden serving spoon is available online for €17, plus delivery.
Send your Shelf Help product suggestions to marieclaire.digby@irishtimes.com
