Hot Pepper Jam

Captivating Hot Pepper Jam Recipe - Sweet-Spicy-Sour Sauce

If you are looking for a recipe that brings a touch of adventure to your kitchen, you have come to the right place! This hot pepper jam is not just a simple preserve, but a symphony of flavors that combines sweetness, spiciness, and a slight acidity, transforming any meal into a memorable gastronomic experience. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare this sweet-spicy-sour sauce, ideal for accompanying cheeses, grilled meats, or even unusual desserts.

Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars of 250 ml

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g red hot peppers (choose the juiciest and fleshiest ones)
- 500 g red bell peppers, sweet peppers, or capia (for a sweeter texture)
- 500 g sugar (preferably fine sugar, for quicker dissolving)
- 500 g vinegar (white wine or apple cider vinegar, for a pleasant flavor)

Useful tips about ingredients:
1. Choosing the peppers: Make sure the peppers are fresh and blemish-free. A combination of hot and sweet peppers will provide a balanced sweetness, but you can adjust the proportions according to your preferences.
2. Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but it helps preserve the sauce.
3. Vinegar: Use a quality vinegar, as it will influence the final taste. Apple cider vinegar adds a fruity note.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by wearing gloves, a protective mask, and ensure you work in a well-ventilated area. Wash the hot and sweet peppers well, then remove the stems, veins, and seeds using a knife and a teaspoon. This is an essential step, as the seeds can add excessive heat.

2. Chopping the peppers: Use a food processor or meat grinder to turn the peppers into a paste. Some people prefer to chop them finer, while others leave them chunkier for a more interesting texture. Here you can choose what you like best.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a large pot, add the sugar and vinegar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. It is important not to let the sugar caramelize, so be careful to stir constantly.

4. Adding the peppers: Once the sugar has dissolved, add the pepper paste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Now, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about an hour, stirring constantly. It is essential to keep the window open and the door closed to avoid strong pepper odors.

5. Checking the consistency: After an hour, check the sauce by placing a teaspoon on a cold plate. If it holds on the plate without running off, it is ready. If not, let it cook for a few more minutes.

6. Bottling: When the sauce has reached the desired consistency, pour it hot into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are tightly closed and turn them upside down to create a vacuum. Let them cool completely.

Serving suggestions:
Hot pepper jam is versatile! You can use it as a sauce for barbecues, accompanying meat or fish dishes. It is also delicious on toast with goat cheese or as an ingredient in salad dressings. Even in Asian dishes, it can add an extra burst of flavor.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add spices like garlic, ginger, or cinnamon for a unique flavor. You can also replace sweet peppers with other types of sweet vegetables.

Nutritional values:
This jam contains vitamins and antioxidants from the peppers, and has a moderate calorie content, given that sugar is a main ingredient. A serving of about 30 g (1 tablespoon) contains approximately 70 calories, making it a good option to add flavor without compromising your diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Is the sauce very spicy?
- The level of spiciness depends on the type of peppers used. You can adjust the proportions between hot and sweet peppers to achieve a taste you enjoy.

2. How can I preserve the jam?
- Make sure the jars are properly sterilized and keep the sauce in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator.

3. Can I use balsamic vinegar?
- While balsamic vinegar can add a distinct flavor, it is sweeter. Use it sparingly, so as not to alter the balance of flavors.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get started! With a little patience and attention, you will create a hot pepper jam that will surely become a favorite among family and friends. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring joy and warmth to the hearts of those who savor it. Happy cooking!