Larry and Lois Nelson are sweet on jelly.

The two make more than 37 flavors of spreads of jams and jellies and they sell the tasty spreads at the Fergus Falls Farmers Market through their stand Nelson’s Jams and Jellies.

From traditional jellies to unique combinations like watermelon strawberry and raspberry jalapeño, they’ve developed great flavors for spreads and cooking.

The couple started selling at the market in 2014 after they talked to Fergus Falls Farmers Market organizers.

“They asked us what we would have to sell,” Lois said.

Once they said jams and jellies, market organizers were enthused to have the Nelsons join the vendors.

While they do make other items, it’s the jams and jellies they are known for. They raise much of the fruit themselves including rhubarb.

“We did a lot of research,” Lois said of their unique flavor combinations. “you have to find the recipes.”

And, with their jam making knowledge, they’ve made some wonderful spreads.

Their great sweet concoctions aren’t just for spreading.

Cooking with jams and jellies - a roasting good idea

When I asked if they used jams for cooking, Lois pointed to the raspberry jalapeño.

Using her tidbits, I followed Lois’ recipe of spreading it on a roast. She said to baste the roast with it during the cooking process.

So I seasoned the roast with salt and pepper on all sides, then spread on the jam. I cook mine in a crock pot and, when I do it again, I will make sure to baste. Even without the basting, the meat did have the flavor of the jam with the savory flavor found in a roast.

For a great treat, check out the many spreads the Nelsons have for sale. So flavorful!