Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe
If you’re searching for a jam that perfectly balances sweet and spicy, look no further than this incredible Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe. Bursting with juicy peaches and a kick of jalapeno heat, this delightful preserve transforms any ordinary snack into something extraordinary. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug packed into a jar, offering layers of flavor that dance on your taste buds. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, serving it alongside cheese, or gifting it to friends, this Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe is sure to become a treasured staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious, relying on a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role. The juicy peaches provide natural sweetness and vibrant color, while the jalapenos add a lively warmth that wakes up your palate. The lemon juice brightens the flavors, and the ginger adds depth and subtle spice, rounding out this jam’s unique personality perfectly.
- 4 cups peeled and chopped peaches: Choose ripe, fragrant peaches for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
- 1-2 jalapenos, finely chopped: Adjust the heat level to your liking; removing seeds will tame the spice.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Adds crucial acidity that balances sweetness and helps preserve freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a warm, aromatic note that complements both peach and jalapeno.
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin: Essential for setting the jam texture perfectly without it being runny.
- 5 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and thickens, creating that classic jam consistency.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps in simmering the fruit gently and dissolving the sugar evenly.
How to Make Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Jars
Starting with sterilized jars and lids is key for safe preservation, so be sure to either boil them or run them through the dishwasher on a hot cycle. Properly prepared jars keep your jam fresh for months and prevent spoilage.
Step 2: Combine Fruit and Spices
In a large pot, gently mix together the chopped peaches, finely chopped jalapenos, lemon juice, and ground ginger. This blend brings together the juicy sweetness, spicy heat, and aromatic warmth in perfect balance right from the start.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Place the pot over medium-high heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the peaches to soften and release their juices. This step helps the flavors meld beautifully and sets the stage for that luscious jam texture.
Step 4: Add Fruit Pectin
Sprinkle the fruit pectin evenly over the simmering mixture, stirring continuously until it fully dissolves. Pectin is what helps your jam achieve that satisfying gel-like consistency without becoming too stiff.
Step 5: Sweeten and Boil
Gradually add the sugar while stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once the sugar dissolves completely, bring the jam to a rolling boil and cook it for 5 to 7 minutes. Keep stirring frequently until you notice the jam thickening. For a foolproof test, spoon a little jam onto a cold plate and check if it wrinkles when pushed — that’s your cue that it’s perfectly set.
Step 6: Jar the Jam
Remove the pot from heat and carefully ladle the hot jam into your prepared jars, leaving about a quarter-inch space at the top. This headspace is essential for safe sealing and prevents overflow during processing.
Step 7: Seal and Process
Seal the jars promptly with sterilized lids, then process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step ensures that your homemade jam is safely preserved and ready to be enjoyed anytime throughout the year.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place such as a pantry. Your Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe will stay fresh for up to a year unopened, making it a fantastic jarred gift or pantry staple.
How to Serve Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro around your serving dish for a pop of green that complements the jam’s vibrant orange hue. A small slice of jalapeno on top can hint at the spicy kick inside, making it visually enticing and appetizing.
Side Dishes
This Peach Jalapeno Jam pairs wonderfully with creamy cheeses like goat cheese, brie, or sharp cheddar. Serve it alongside a charcuterie board or with crusty bread to elevate your snack game instantly. It also shines when spooned over grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a sweet and spicy glaze.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try dolloping this jam on top of vanilla ice cream or swirl it into Greek yogurt for a spicy-sweet dessert sensation. It even works beautifully as a glaze on savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork, adding layers of flavor that will surprise and delight guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once opened, keep your Peach Jalapeno Jam refrigerated and tightly sealed. It will stay delicious and fresh for up to three weeks, making it easy to enjoy a little bit of summer heat whenever you want.
Freezing
If you want to save even more jam for later, you can freeze small portions in airtight containers. When well-sealed, the jam can last up to six months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
If your jam thickens too much in the fridge or freezer, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to regain that perfect spreadable consistency. Just be careful not to overheat and alter the fresh flavors you worked so hard to create.
FAQs
Can I adjust the spice level in the Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe?
Absolutely! The number of jalapenos you add can be tailored to your heat preference. For a milder jam, remove the seeds or use only one jalapeno. For extra heat, include seeds or add a touch more jalapeno.
Do I need to peel the peaches for this recipe?
Peeling peaches is recommended to achieve a smooth jam texture, but if you prefer more rustic, chunky jam, you can leave the skins on. Just make sure to chop them finely to avoid large pieces.
How can I tell when the jam is set properly?
The easiest test is to place a spoonful of hot jam on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. Push it gently with your finger — if the surface wrinkles and holds its shape, your jam is set perfectly!
Is fruit pectin necessary for this jam?
Fruit pectin helps the jam thicken and set without excessive cooking, which preserves fresh flavor. Without it, your jam might be runnier and require longer cooking times to thicken.
How long can I store unopened jars of Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe?
When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, unopened jars can last up to one year. Always check the seal before use to ensure freshness and safety.
Final Thoughts
This Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe is a joyful celebration of flavors that is surprisingly easy to make yet feels incredibly special. Whether you’re new to canning or a seasoned pro, this jam brings a wonderful mix of sweet and spicy that brightens up everyday meals and gatherings. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the delicious magic it adds to your kitchen!
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Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 2 cups of jam) 1x
Description
This Peach Jalapeno Jam is a delightful blend of sweet ripe peaches and spicy jalapenos, balanced with fresh lemon juice and a hint of ginger. Perfect for adding a unique kick to toast, cheese boards, or grilled meats, this homemade jam is cooked on the stovetop and preserved with a boiling water bath for long-lasting freshness.
Ingredients
Fruit and Flavoring
- 4 cups peeled and chopped peaches (about 4 large peaches)
- 1–2 jalapenos, finely chopped (depending on desired spice level)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Thickening and Sweetening
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Sterilize Jars: Prepare your canning jars and lids by sterilizing them in hot water or using a dishwasher cycle. Set them aside to dry completely before filling.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, mix together the peeled and chopped peaches, finely chopped jalapenos, lemon juice, and ground ginger to blend the flavors.
- Simmer Fruit Mixture: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking for 10–15 minutes until the peaches soften and start releasing their natural juices.
- Add Pectin: Stir in the fruit pectin until fully dissolved, which helps the jam to set properly.
- Add Sugar and Boil: Gradually add the granulated sugar to the pot, stirring constantly. Once all sugar has dissolved, bring the jam to a rolling boil and continue boiling for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until the jam thickens. Test the consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; it should firm up and wrinkle when pushed.
- Fill Jars: Remove the pot from heat and carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top for expansion during sealing.
- Seal and Process: Seal the jars with sterilized lids and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a safe, airtight seal.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, keep refrigerated and use within 3 weeks.
Notes
- Adjust jalapeno quantity to control the heat level in the jam.
- Test the jam’s set by placing a small amount on a chilled plate; it should wrinkle when pushed with a finger.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage.
- Use ripe, fresh peaches for the best flavor and texture.
- Leftover jam can be refrigerated and used within 3 weeks after opening.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
