Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Traditional Jam

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Are you ready to take your jam-making skills to the next level? The Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam is a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors that will elevate your pantry staples. This jam blends the sweetness of plums with the heat of jalapeños and a hint of ginger, offering a bold new twist on a classic spread. Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or a newcomer to preserving, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring a delightful result.

This article will take you through the entire process of making Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam, from understanding its unique flavor profile to canning it for long-term storage. Let’s dive in!

What Makes Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam Special?

Imagine a jam that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a little kick to your meal. That’s exactly what this Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam offers. It’s more than just a spread for your morning toast—this jam can elevate sandwiches, grilled meats, and even cheeses with its complex blend of flavors.

• Sweet & Spicy Balance: The juicy, tart plums bring a delightful sweetness, while the red bell peppers add a mild, savory undertone. The real star of this jam, however, is the jalapeño peppers. They introduce a fiery heat that can be adjusted to your preference.
• Versatility: This jam isn’t limited to toast. Pair it with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or even steak. It works wonderfully as a condiment for cheese platters or drizzled over roasted vegetables.
• Fresh Ingredients: Every ingredient in this jam—ginger, plums, red bell pepper, and apple cider vinegar—is fresh and natural. You won’t find any artificial preservatives or additives, just real ingredients that create a jam bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Jam

To make this delightful jam, you’ll need a mix of fresh produce, sugar, and a few essential ingredients for the canning process. Below is a list of everything you’ll need to gather before starting.

Basic Ingredients for Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Granulated sugar	5 ½ cups	The primary sweetener that balances the spices.
Red bell pepper	1 ½ cups finely chopped	1 large or 2 small peppers; provides a mild savory flavor.
Fresh plums	1 cup finely chopped	About 3 medium plums, drained to prevent excess liquid.
Apple (any variety)	½ cup finely chopped	Adds subtle tartness and texture to the jam.
Fresh ginger	1 ½ tablespoons grated	A zingy spice that complements the heat of the jalapeños.
Jalapeño peppers	1-2 medium, finely chopped	Seeds included for added heat; adjust to your preference.
Apple cider vinegar	1 ⅓ cups	Provides acidity and balance to the jam.
Butter	½ teaspoon	Used to help prevent foam during the boiling process.
Fresh lemon juice	2 tablespoons	Enhances the acidity and brightens the jam’s flavor.
Liquid pectin	3 ounces (1 packet)	Necessary for the jam to set and thicken properly.

Optional: For Canning

Item	Notes
Clean, sterilized jars	To store the jam for long-term use.
Hot water bath canning equipment	Necessary for sealing jars if you want to preserve the jam.

Once you’ve gathered these ingredients, you’re ready to begin making your jam!

How to Make Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Combine All the Ingredients

Start by adding all of your ingredients into a large, heavy pot. This includes the granulated sugar, finely chopped red bell pepper, fresh plums, finely chopped apple, freshly grated ginger, finely chopped jalapeños, apple cider vinegar, and the butter. Stir everything together to make sure it’s well-mixed.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil

Turn your stove to medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir frequently to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot. As it starts to heat up, the sugar will dissolve, and the fruits and vegetables will begin to break down, releasing their juices.

Let the mixture boil for about 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, take a spoonful of the jam and allow it to cool for a few seconds. Taste it to see if the heat is to your liking. If you prefer a spicier jam, now is the time to add more chopped jalapeño peppers. Stir well and continue to cook for another minute or so.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice and Pectin

Once the heat level is perfect, it’s time to stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and liquid pectin. The lemon juice not only adds a zesty flavor but also helps balance the sweetness with a little acidity. The pectin is what will help the jam set and thicken properly.

Return the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 1 more minute while stirring continuously. The pectin will activate, causing the jam to thicken.

Step 4: Ladle the Jam into Jars

Once your jam has reached the right consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars. Make sure to leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion as the jam cools. If you plan to use the hot water canning method, ensure your jars and lids are sterilized beforehand.

Step 5: Let the Jam Set

Now that your jars are filled with jam, let them sit at room temperature for about 24 hours. During this time, the jam will set and reach its final consistency. After 24 hours, you can refrigerate or freeze the jam for long-term storage.

Hot Water Canning Method: A Step-by-Step Guide

For those who want to store the jam for several months, using the hot water canning method is the best option. Canning helps preserve the jam while creating a vacuum seal that ensures it lasts for a long time.

Step-by-Step Canning Process:

1. Sterilize Your Jars: Start by sterilizing your jars and lids. Place them in boiling water for 10 minutes to ensure they are clean and free of any bacteria.
2. Fill the Jars: Once the jars are sterilized, carefully ladle the hot jam into the jars, leaving a small gap (about ¼ inch) at the top to prevent overflow.
3. Seal the Jars: Place the sterilized lids on the jars and secure them tightly. Ensure there’s no air trapped in the jar to create a proper seal.
4. Hot Water Bath: Place the sealed jars in a large pot of boiling water. Ensure the water covers the jars by at least an inch. Boil for 10 minutes to create a vacuum seal.
5. Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the hot water and let them cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, check to see if the jars are sealed by pressing down on the center of the lid. If it pops, the jar hasn’t sealed correctly and should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.

Ways to Enjoy Your Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam

This spicy jam isn’t just a spread for your toast—it can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor and flair to your meals. Here are some delicious ideas for how to enjoy it:

• Spread on Toast or Biscuits: The most classic use, and a great way to start your day with a sweet, spicy kick.
• Condiment for Grilled Meats: Whether you’re grilling chicken, pork, or steak, this jam pairs wonderfully with smoky flavors and adds a sweet-spicy element.
• Cheese Platter: Add a jar of this jam to your next cheese board for an unexpected twist that will wow your guests.
• Drizzle over Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes become even more delicious when topped with a dollop of this tangy jam.
• On Sandwiches: Elevate your sandwiches with a spoonful of this jam. It pairs beautifully with deli meats, roasted vegetables, or even grilled cheese.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (1 tablespoon) of Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam contains:

• Calories: 45
• Sugar: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g

While the jam is primarily made up of sugar and fruits, it’s a low-calorie option compared to many store-bought jams, and it provides a delicious alternative to sugary condiments.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam

1. Can I make this jam without jalapeños?

Yes! If you prefer a milder version of the jam, you can simply omit the jalapeños. Alternatively, you can replace them with milder peppers like banana peppers or red bell peppers for a less spicy jam.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our https://miarecipes.com/baked-spinach-mushroom-quesadillas-3/

2. How long can I store this jam?

If you use the hot water canning method, your jam can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate the jam and use it within three weeks for the best flavor.

3. Can I freeze this jam?

Absolutely! Once the jam has set for 24 hours, you can freeze it in airtight containers for long-term storage. Freezing preserves the flavor and texture, and you can enjoy it for months to come.

4. Can I use a different type of fruit in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like peaches, apricots, or even pears. Each fruit will bring its own flavor and texture to the jam, so feel free to get creative.

Conclusion: A Bold Addition to Your Pantry

Your homemade Spicy Red Pepper Plum Jam is ready to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it as a sweet and spicy spread, a condiment for meats, or a topping for crackers and cheeses, it’s sure to add a unique twist to your meals. The best part is that with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can make this jam in just a short amount of time.

Get started today and enjoy the delightful blend of sweet plums, fiery jalapeños, and aromatic ginger all year round. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—they’ll love it!

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