Indulge in the perfect balance of spicy and sweet with this homemade jalapeno-strawberry jam. Made with fresh strawberries, fiery jalapenos, and a hint of tangy lemon juice, this jam is a delightful twist on traditional fruit spreads. Spread it on warm toast, use it as a glaze for grilled meats, or add a dollop to your favorite cheese to elevate your snack game. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this addictive homemade jam.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 jalapeno peppers, seeds and membranes removed, finely chopped
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 package powdered fruit pectin
- 1/2 teaspoon butter (optional, to reduce foaming)
Directions
- In a large saucepan, combine the strawberries, jalapenos, lemon juice, and fruit pectin. Stir well to combine.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.
- Once boiling, add the sugar and continue to stir until the sugar has dissolved completely.
- Add the butter (if using) to reduce foaming.
- Continue to boil the mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and skim off any foam that has formed on top.
- Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace. Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars on the counter.
- Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth and place the lids on top. Screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and preservation.
- Carefully remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a clean towel to cool. Allow the jars to sit undisturbed for 24 hours to fully set the jam.
- After 24 hours, check the seals of the jars by pressing down on the center of the lids. If the lids do not pop back, the jars are properly sealed and can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
- To enjoy the jalapeno-strawberry jam, spread it on toast, use it as a glaze for grilled meats, or pair it with cheese for a delightful snack.
Interesting Facts
Jalapeno peppers add a subtle heat to the jam, making it a versatile condiment for those who enjoy a touch of spiciness.
The addition of lemon juice helps to balance the sweetness of the strawberries and enhances the overall flavor of the jam.
This recipe uses a boiling water bath to ensure the jars are properly sealed and the jam remains fresh for an extended period.