Spicy Chili Pepper Jam Recipe
Category: Jams and Preserves
Servings: 1 Jar (Approx. 300g)
This spicy chili pepper jam is perfect for those who love a sweet yet fiery kick in their spreads. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and the final result is an addictive blend of heat and sweetness. Whether spread over a warm piece of toast, served as an accompaniment to cheeses, or used as a glaze for grilled meats, this jam adds a unique burst of flavor to any dish. The rich red color of the peppers combined with the tangy sweetness makes it a visually appealing addition to any kitchen pantry.
Ingredients for Spicy Chili Pepper Jam:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh chili peppers | 200g |
| Red bell peppers | 800g |
| Sugar | 500g |
| Fine salt | 1 pinch |
| Red wine | 50ml |
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 tsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 30 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Sodium | 15mg |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Peppers: Start by preparing the bell peppers. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water, pat them dry with a clean towel, and remove the top stems. Slice the peppers lengthwise, removing the internal white membranes and seeds. Cut them into small pieces.
-
Handle the Chili Peppers: Before working with the chili peppers, make sure to wear gloves to avoid irritation from the seeds and membranes. Wash them well, remove the stems, slice them in half lengthwise, and carefully discard the seeds and membranes. Cut them into small pieces as well.
-
Cooking the Jam: Place the chopped bell peppers and chili peppers into a large pot. Add the sugar and the pinch of salt to the pot, then stir well to combine. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help soften the peppers and allow the sugar to dissolve into a syrupy consistency.
-
Sanitize the Jars: While the jam is cooking, it’s important to prepare the jars and lids. Thoroughly sanitize them by boiling the jars and lids in hot water for 10 minutes, then set them aside to air dry.
-
Strain the Jam: After the peppers have softened and the sugar has dissolved, turn off the heat. Use a sieve or food mill to strain the jam, pressing down on the peppers to release as much pulp as possible. This will help ensure a smooth, silky texture for your jam.
-
Final Cooking: Return the strained mixture to the pot and continue to cook on low heat, stirring frequently. After 30 minutes, do the “plate test” to check the consistency. Place a small spoonful of the jam on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through the jam, and if it wrinkles and holds its shape, the jam is ready. If it’s too runny, continue cooking and checking every 5 minutes until it thickens.
-
Jar the Jam: Once the jam reaches the desired thickness, remove it from the heat. Carefully pour the hot jam into the sanitized jars using a ladle and funnel to avoid spills. Leave about 1 cm of space at the top of each jar. Close the jars with the lids, tightening them without overdoing it.
-
Seal and Cool: Allow the jam to cool completely at room temperature. The natural heat from the jam will create a vacuum seal, ensuring that it stays fresh for an extended period.
-
Check the Seal: After the jars have cooled, check that the vacuum seal has worked properly. Press down in the center of the lid—if you hear a “click-clack” sound, the seal is successful. If the lid pops back up, you can try resealing or refrigerating the jam for immediate use.
Your homemade spicy chili pepper jam is now ready to enjoy! Serve it as a sweet and spicy topping for meats, cheeses, or toast. The combination of red bell peppers and chili peppers provides a balanced flavor that is sure to satisfy both heat-seekers and sweet-tooth enthusiasts alike. This jam can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Tips for Success:
-
Gloves are Essential: When handling chili peppers, wearing gloves is crucial. The oils in the peppers can cause irritation, and using gloves ensures that you don’t accidentally transfer the spice to your skin or eyes.
-
Customize the Heat: If you prefer a milder jam, reduce the amount of chili peppers or opt for a less spicy variety. Conversely, if you love heat, you can increase the number of chili peppers to ramp up the spiciness.
-
Sterilize Jars Properly: Ensuring that your jars are properly sterilized before filling them is key to the preservation of the jam. You can boil the jars or run them through the dishwasher before use.
-
Storage: Store your sealed jars in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks.
This spicy chili pepper jam will quickly become a household favorite, perfect for adding a flavorful punch to your meals. Enjoy the balance of heat and sweetness it brings to your dishes!
