Description
This vibrant Jalapeño Strawberry Jam combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the spicy kick of jalapeños, creating a unique and flavorful preserve perfect for spreading on toast, glazing meats, or adding a zesty twist to desserts. Made with simple ingredients and fruit pectin for the perfect consistency, this jam is a delightful balance of sweet and heat.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits and Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed for less heat, finely chopped
Other Ingredients
- 3 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash, hull, and chop the strawberries into small pieces to help them break down easily during cooking.
- Prepare Jalapeños: Remove seeds from jalapeños if you prefer milder heat, then finely chop them to disperse the spicy flavor evenly throughout the jam.
- Cook the Jam Base: In a large saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, jalapeños, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes until the strawberries begin to break down.
- Add Sugar and Lemon Juice: Stir in the sugar and lemon juice thoroughly. The lemon juice helps with setting the jam and preserves flavor.
- Incorporate Pectin: Gradually add the fruit pectin while stirring continuously to avoid lumps, ensuring it fully dissolves into the mixture.
- Boil to Thicken: Bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil and cook for 5-7 minutes while stirring constantly. This step activates the pectin and thickens the jam.
- Can the Jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Seal the jars with lids immediately.
- Process the Jars: To preserve the jam for longer storage, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the jam and use within a few weeks.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator.
- Enjoy: Serve your Jalapeño Strawberry Jam on toast, crackers, or use it as a condiment to add a flavorful kick to your meals.
Notes
- Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your heat preference.
- Ensure jars are sterilized properly to prevent spoilage.
- Use fresh and ripe strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- You can reuse the jam in sauces or as a glaze for meats for an extra dimension of taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
