John'S Red Pepper Jam
A vibrant red pepper jam with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, perfect for spreading on bread, cheese, or serving alongside grilled meats and appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend red bell peppers and hot-mild red peppers with 1/2 cup vinegar until smooth.
- Continue blending, adding more vinegar if needed to keep the mixture moving.
- Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened.
- Add 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt for each quart of mixture.
- Cook until the jam reaches desired thickness, then transfer to sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure that your red bell peppers and hot-mild peppers are blended thoroughly with the vinegar. If the jam is too thick, add more vinegar gradually during cooking. If you prefer a sweeter jam, consider increasing the sugar slightly. You can also substitute half of the vinegar with citrus juice for a zesty twist. This recipe pairs beautifully with Quick Lentils And Rice(Child-Approved) for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
This red pepper jam is a versatile condiment that enhances cheese boards, sandwiches, or grilled meats. It pairs particularly well with cream cheese on crackers or as a glaze for roasted vegetables. For a festive touch, serve alongside Holiday Orange Balls for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the red pepper jam in sterilized jars, ensuring they are sealed tightly. Keep the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within a month. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to return it to a spreadable consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of John'S Red Pepper Jam contains roughly 23 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 use other types of peppers in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of peppers, such as jalapeños for heat or sweet yellow peppers for a milder jam. Just adjust the ratio of sweet to hot peppers to achieve your desired flavor profile.
How do I know when the jam has thickened enough?
The jam is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds its shape without immediately running off. You can also test it by placing a small amount on a plate and letting it cool; if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it's thickened adequately.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Feel free to use organic sugar if you prefer. Always check the vinegar label to ensure it's vegan-friendly, especially if using flavored varieties.
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).