Quick Easy Jalapeno Jam

This jalapeno jam is a quick and easy way to add a perfect balance of sweet and spicy to your meals. It works beautifully as a spread, a glaze, or a dip and takes just about 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe captures the vibrant flavor of fresh jalapeños combined with the sweetness of sugar and the tang of apple cider vinegar, making it a versatile condiment that livens up anything from sandwiches to grilled meats.

I first made this jam to spice up a boring cheese platter and now it’s my go-to gift for friends and family. Every time I make a batch, it disappears quickly at get-togethers because the mix of sweet and heat hits just right.

Ingredients

• Fresh jalapeños: ten medium sized finely chopped the freshness and heat come from these so pick firm peppers with bright skin
• Granulated sugar: two cups balances the heat with a clean sweetness that helps preserve the jam
• Apple cider vinegar: one cup adds brightness and acidity which enhances the flavors and helps with preservation
• Red bell pepper: quarter cup finely chopped gives color contrast and a subtle sweetness that softens the heat slightly
• Fruit pectin: one package approximately one point seven five ounces helps the jam set properly for that spreadable texture
• Salt: half teaspoon enhances all flavors bringing out the sweetness and spiciness effectively

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeños:

Thoroughly wash the jalapeños and remove the stems. Finely chop them to your desired heat level removing the seeds will reduce the heat if preferred. This step ensures even cooking and a smooth texture in the final jam.

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large bowl combine the chopped jalapeños, finely chopped red bell pepper, sugar, and salt. Stir thoroughly and let the mixture rest for ten minutes. This resting period helps the sugar draw out moisture and blends the flavors early on.

Cook the Jam:

Transfer the mixture into a large saucepan and add the apple cider vinegar. Bring it to a rapid boil over medium-high heat while stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Add the Pectin:

Once boiling, stir in the package of fruit pectin. Keep stirring and maintain a rolling boil for one minute. The pectin activates during boiling and thickens the jam as it cools, giving it the perfect consistency.

Assess Consistency:

Remove the pan from heat and observe the jam’s thickness. If it seems too runny, return to boil for an additional minute while stirring continuously. This step helps achieve your preferred texture.

Jar the Jam:

Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars leaving about one quarter inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims with a clean damp cloth to remove any residue to ensure a good seal.

Seal and Cool:

Place sterilized lids onto the jars immediately while the mixture is still hot. Let the jars cool completely at room temperature to develop a proper seal before storing.

Jalapeños are my favorite part of this recipe because they add a crisp heat that is rounded out by the sweetness of the sugar and red bell pepper. This jam always reminds me of family cookouts where it was the star accompaniment to grilled cheeses and burgers, bringing a little kick and brightness to the table.

Storage Tips

Store the jalapeno jam in the refrigerator after opening to maintain freshness. It should last up to three weeks when kept cold in airtight jars. For longer storage, canning the jam in sterilized jars will preserve it for several months. Always use clean utensils to avoid contamination.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer less heat substitute some or all jalapeños with mild green peppers or Anaheim peppers. For a different sweet note, try replacing granulated sugar with honey or agave syrup but keep in mind this may alter the texture. You can swap apple cider vinegar for white wine vinegar to get a slightly different tang.

Serving Suggestions

This jalapeno jam shines as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork adding a zesty glaze. It is equally delicious spread on crackers topped with cream cheese for a quick appetizer. Drizzle over tacos or use as a topping on burgers to add layers of flavor and spice.

This jalapeño jam is a versatile condiment that adds sweet heat to many dishes. It also stores well and makes a thoughtful homemade gift.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How do I reduce the heat level in the jalapeno jam?

Removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping will significantly reduce the spiciness while keeping the flavor.

→ Can I substitute apple cider vinegar with another vinegar?

Yes, white vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used, but apple cider vinegar adds a subtle fruity tang that complements the jam well.

→ What is the role of fruit pectin in the spread?

Fruit pectin helps the mixture thicken and set properly, giving the jam its ideal spreadable texture.

→ How should I store the jalapeno jam after cooking?

Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal tightly. Once cooled, store in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?

The amount of sugar can be reduced or increased to taste, but sugar also helps with the preservation and texture of the jam.