Sweet kapia pepper jam

Kapia pepper jam is a delicacy that brings a touch of originality to any snack, with a perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors. This unique recipe is ideal for serving alongside blue cheeses, but can also be used to add a special accent to various dishes, such as stews or grilled meats. Let's embark together on this culinary journey, where we will transform kapia peppers into a sophisticated jam!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 250 ml

Ingredients:
- 500 g sugar
- 300 ml water
- 6 kapia peppers (should be well ripe)
- 1/4 lemon (juice)
- 1 teaspoon ground mixed pepper

A bit of history:
Kapia pepper jam is not just a simple preserve, but a culinary tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is said that this recipe originated from the desire to preserve the fresh flavors of summer for the cold winter days. The combination of sweet peppers with sugar and spices created a jam that not only nourishes but also delights the taste buds.

Step by step for perfect jam:

1. Preparing the syrup:
Place a 3-liter pot over medium heat and add the 300 ml of water and 500 g of sugar. Stir well until the sugar completely dissolves. Continue boiling the mixture, being careful to remove the foam that forms on the surface. It is important to boil the syrup until it thickens well; a simple way to check the consistency is to drop a few drops of syrup onto a saucer. If the syrup forms a bead, it is ready.

2. Preparing the peppers:
Meanwhile, wash the kapia peppers well under a stream of cold water. Dry them with a clean towel and then remove the stems, seeds, and veins. Cut the peppers into thin strips, julienne, to allow the flavors to infuse into the syrup.

3. Adding the peppers to the syrup:
Once the syrup is well thickened, add the sliced peppers. Boil the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure the peppers are completely covered by the syrup. You will notice how the color of the peppers becomes more vibrant and how the jam's aroma begins to reveal itself.

4. Finalizing the jam:
After 20 minutes, add the juice of 1/4 lemon and stir well. The lemon will add not only a touch of acidity that will balance the sweetness but also natural preservatives. Let it boil for another 3-4 minutes. Finally, add 1 teaspoon of ground mixed pepper, which will give a slightly spicy and intriguing note to your jam.

5. Bottling and storing:
Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool slightly. Using a spoon or ladle, pour the jam into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars with airtight lids and let them cool completely at room temperature. The jam will keep well in the pantry, but once opened, it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the peppers: Make sure to choose well-ripe kapia peppers with a vibrant color, as they will provide the best flavor and texture for the jam.
- Sugar: You can experiment with different types of sugar (e.g., brown sugar) to achieve a slightly different flavor.
- Variations: If you want to add a touch of originality, you can experiment with spices like cinnamon or cloves, adding an exotic note to your jam.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can the jam be stored for a long time?
If well sterilized and stored in a cool, dark place, the jam can last up to a year. Once opened, it is best to consume it within a few weeks.

- Can I use other peppers?
Yes, you can experiment with sweet peppers of other varieties, but the taste and texture will vary.

- How can I serve kapia pepper jam?
It is delicious served alongside blue cheeses, but can also be used as a filling for pastries or as a sauce for meat.

Nutrition and benefits:
Kapia pepper jam is not only a treat but also a source of antioxidants, vitamin C, and other beneficial nutrients, thanks to the peppers. Although it is sweetened with sugar, it can be a healthier alternative to industrial sweets, offering an explosion of natural flavors.

Serving:
For a special presentation, you can serve kapia pepper jam in small jars, alongside fine cheeses and crunchy biscuits, creating a refined meal for any occasion.

Savor every spoonful of this kapia pepper jam, which not only delights the taste buds but also enriches the culinary experience!