Jalapeno Strawberry Jam

Jalapeno Strawberry Jam is a delightful blend of sweet strawberries and spicy jalapenos, creating a flavor-packed spread perfect for your breakfast table, charcuterie boards, or as a glaze for meats. This jam offers a unique twist on traditional strawberry jam, making it a standout addition to any pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet and spicy: The combination of strawberries and jalapenos creates a taste that’s both sweet and slightly fiery.
• Versatile usage: Use it on toast, as a glaze, or even as a topping for baked brie.
• Simple to make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this jam is beginner-friendly.
• Customizable: Adjust the level of spice by adding more or fewer jalapenos.
• Preserves seasonal fruit: A great way to make the most of fresh strawberries during peak season.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh strawberries
• Jalapenos
• Granulated sugar
• Lemon juice
• Pectin

Directions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash and hull the strawberries, then chop them. Remove the seeds from the jalapenos for less heat, or keep them for extra spice. Chop the jalapenos finely.
2. Cook the jam: In a large pot, combine the strawberries, jalapenos, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat the mixture on medium heat, stirring regularly, until it begins to boil.
3. Add pectin: Stir in the pectin, ensuring it’s fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to boil for another 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly.
4. Test the jam: To check if the jam has set, drop a small amount onto a chilled plate. If it forms a gel-like consistency, it’s ready.
5. Jar the jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small amount of headspace. Seal the jars tightly.
6. Process the jars: If you plan to store the jam long-term, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
7. Cool and store: Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 4-6 half-pint jars
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Milder jam: Reduce the number of jalapenos or remove all seeds for a less spicy version.
• Berry mix: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry twist.
• Citrus twist: Add orange or lime zest for an extra layer of citrusy flavor.
• Smoky heat: Use smoked jalapenos (chipotles) for a smoky flavor.
• Honey-sweetened: Replace part of the sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store opened jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
• Freezer: Freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. Ensure you leave space for expansion.
• Room temperature: Properly canned and sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

No reheating is needed, but if your jam thickens too much in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before use.

FAQs

1. How spicy is this jam?

The spice level depends on the amount of jalapeno used and whether the seeds are included. Adjust according to your preference.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but fresh ones yield the best flavor. Thaw and drain them before use.

3. Do I need to sterilize the jars?

For long-term storage, sterilizing jars is essential to prevent spoilage.

4. Can I make this jam without pectin?

Yes, but it may take longer to achieve the desired consistency, and the texture may vary.

5. What can I use this jam for?

Spread it on toast, pair it with cream cheese, use it as a meat glaze, or add it to yogurt or ice cream.

6. How do I reduce the sweetness?

Use a low-sugar pectin and reduce the sugar amount. However, sugar is essential for proper preservation.

7. Can I double the recipe?

It’s better to make multiple smaller batches to ensure the jam sets properly.

8. How do I know if my jam has spoiled?

Signs of spoilage include an off smell, mold, or bulging lids. Discard any questionable jars.

9. Can I use other peppers?

Yes, you can substitute jalapenos with serrano, habanero, or bell peppers for different levels of heat.

10. Why isn’t my jam setting?

Ensure you use the correct amount of pectin and boil it as instructed. Humidity or overcooking may also affect the setting.

Conclusion

Jalapeno Strawberry Jam is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a spread, a glaze, or an accompaniment to cheese, this jam is sure to impress. With its simple preparation and customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Print