Description
This sweet and spicy Jalapeño Strawberry Jam combines fresh strawberries with a kick of jalapeño heat, creating a unique and flavorful spread perfect for toast, cheese boards, or as a glaze for meats. The jam is cooked on the stovetop and uses fruit pectin to ensure a deliciously thick and spreadable consistency.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Base
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed for less heat
Additional Ingredients
- 3 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash, hull, and chop the fresh strawberries carefully to ensure a clean base for the jam. Then, remove seeds from the jalapeños for milder heat and finely chop them.
- Cook the Jam Base: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, jalapeños, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the strawberries to break down.
- Add Sugar and Lemon Juice: Stir in the sugar and lemon juice thoroughly to help the jam set and balance the flavors.
- Incorporate Fruit Pectin: Gradually add the fruit pectin while stirring continuously to distribute it evenly and prevent clumping.
- Boil to Thicken: Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring constantly until the jam thickens to the desired consistency.
- Jar the Jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly.
- Process or Refrigerate: For longer storage, process the sealed jars in a hot water bath for 5 to 10 minutes to ensure preservation. If you prefer to consume sooner, refrigerate the jars and use within a few weeks.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the jars to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your homemade Jalapeño Strawberry Jam on toast, with cheese, or as a flavorful condiment.
Notes
- Removing jalapeño seeds reduces the heat level; keep seeds for spicier jam.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- If you don’t have fruit pectin, the jam may take longer to set or have a softer texture.
- Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place; refrigerate after opening.
- This jam pairs well with cream cheese, grilled meats, or as a topping for desserts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
