Description
This vibrant and spicy Jalapeno Jam combines the heat of fresh jalapenos with the sweetness of sugar and the tang of apple cider vinegar, balanced perfectly with the crisp flavor of red bell pepper. Quick to prepare using a stovetop simmering method, this jam is an excellent condiment to add a kick to sandwiches, cheeses, and grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 16 large jalapenos (or 4 cups finely minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into chunks)
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1.75 ounce package Sure Jell powdered pectin
- 5 cups white granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the peppers: Thoroughly wash and dry the jalapenos and red bell pepper. Cut the jalapenos and bell pepper into chunks to prepare for mincing.
- Process the peppers: Place the chopped jalapenos and bell pepper into a food processor. Use the pulse/chop setting to finely mince until you have a total of 4 cups of minced peppers, ensuring the pieces are small enough to blend smoothly into the jam.
- Combine initial ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the minced peppers with the apple cider vinegar and white granulated sugar. Stir the mixture well to evenly distribute the ingredients before heating.
- Simmer the mixture: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors and dissolve the sugar.
- Add the pectin: After simmering, stir in the powdered pectin completely to help the jam set properly. Make sure there are no lumps and it is fully incorporated.
- Bring to a rolling boil: Increase the heat back to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil again. Boil for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to activate the pectin and thicken the jam.
- Test for consistency: Perform a gel test by placing a small amount of hot jam on a chilled plate. Allow it to cool for a minute. If it sets to your liking, the jam is ready. If not, continue boiling for another minute and test again until desired thickness is achieved.
- Finish and jar the jam: Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam that formed on top. Carefully ladle the hot jalapeno jam into sterilized jars and allow them to cool. Store the jars in the refrigerator for preservation.
Notes
- Adjust the number of jalapenos to control the heat level of the jam.
- Use gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation.
- Ensure jars and lids are sterilized before filling to extend shelf life.
- The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- This jam pairs wonderfully with cream cheese, crackers, or as a glaze for grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Jalapeno Jam, Spicy Jam, Homemade Jam, Pepper Jam, Condiment, Preserves, Sweet and Spicy
