Hot Pepper Jam
Hot Pepper Jam offers a sweet, spicy, and tangy flavor combination, perfect for spreading on toast, serving with cheeses, or as a condiment for meats and snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash peppers well, remove spots, and cut into pieces.
- Puree the peppers in a blender or food processor.
- Quarter the onions and puree them.
- In a 3-quart microwave-safe bowl, mix the pureed peppers, onions, sugar, and vinegar.
- Microwave on High, uncovered, for about 12 minutes until the mixture reaches a brisk boil.
- Boil on High for 5 minutes.
- Add liquid fruit pectin and a few drops of food coloring to the mixture.
- Microwave on High for about 5 minutes until the mixture returns to a boil.
- Boil for 1 minute longer.
- Skim foam with a large spoon.
- Pour the hot jam immediately into sterilized jars, leaving 1/8 inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean.
- Adjust the jar lids securely.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder jam, reduce the amount of hot peppers or substitute with bell peppers. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the pureed peppers less. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. When adding food coloring, start with a small amount and adjust to achieve your desired hue. This jam can be served with cheese platters or as a glaze on meats, making it versatile for various occasions.
Serving Suggestions
This hot pepper jam pairs beautifully with cheese and crackers, making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings. It can also be used as a glaze for grilled meats or a spicy addition to sandwiches. Consider serving it alongside Cajun Red Potato Salad for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the hot pepper jam in a cool, dark place for up to a year if properly sealed. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator where it should last for several weeks. To reheat, simply microwave a portion in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent overheating and ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Pepper Jam contains roughly 30 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste. However, keep in mind that sugar is essential for the jam's preservation and texture, so it's best to not go below half of the original amount. Taste the mixture before adding pectin to find your ideal balance.
What type of jars is best for storing the jam?
Use canning jars that are specifically designed for preserving foods. Mason jars are a popular choice as they provide an airtight seal when properly processed. Ensure they are sterilized before filling them with hot jam to prevent contamination.
Can I make this jam without pectin?
While liquid fruit pectin helps achieve the desired consistency, you can make the jam without it by cooking the mixture longer to allow natural pectin from the fruits to thicken the jam. However, this may require more careful monitoring to avoid burning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).