Description
This Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Strawberry Jam combines the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with the subtle heat of jalapeno peppers, balanced by lemon juice and sugar. Perfect for adding a vibrant twist to toast, cheese boards, or grilled meats, this jam is easy to make on the stovetop and sets beautifully thanks to fruit pectin.
Ingredients
Scale
Jam Ingredients
- 1 pound Fresh Strawberries, hulled and diced (ripe for sweetness)
- 2-3 Jalapeno Peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust based on spice level)
- 2 cups Granulated Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1 tablespoon Powdered Fruit Pectin (or liquid pectin)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and hull the strawberries, then dice them into small pieces. Seed and finely chop the jalapeno peppers, adjusting the quantity according to your desired spice level.
- Combine Mixture: In a large pot, mix together the diced strawberries, chopped jalapenos, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and powdered fruit pectin. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook and Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure sugar dissolves completely.
- Thicken Jam: Allow the mixture to boil for about 10 minutes, stirring continuously or frequently, until the jam reaches your preferred thickness.
- Test Consistency: To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute; if it gels and wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s done.
- Jar Jam: Carefully spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool to room temperature.
- Store: Refrigerate the jam for up to 3 weeks. For longer shelf life, process the jars in a boiling water canner according to standard canning practices.
Notes
- Adjust jalapeno quantity for milder or spicier jam.
- Use ripe strawberries for the best natural sweetness.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- If using liquid pectin, follow package instructions as they may differ slightly.
- Test jam consistency carefully, as overcooking can lead to overly stiff jam.
