Hot pepper jam

Chili pepper jam is a delicacy that brings a touch of warmth and sweetness to any meal. This unusual recipe combines the intense flavors of chili peppers with the deep sweetness of sugar, resulting in a captivating culinary experience. Perfect for serving alongside cheeses, meats, or even on a slice of toasted bread, chili pepper jam quickly becomes a favorite ingredient in any household.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 10 jars of 250g

Ingredients

- 1 kg chili peppers (choose according to your preference: sweet, semi-hot, or very hot)
- 1 kg bell peppers (ripe and firm fruits for a crunchy texture)
- 1 kg sugar (brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor)
- 1 l vinegar (preferably white wine vinegar for a finer taste)

A brief history of chili pepper jam

Chili pepper jam has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, used both as a condiment and as a side dish. This recipe has evolved over time, integrating various flavors and preparation techniques, but its essence remains unchanged: a perfect combination of sweetness and spiciness. It is a fantastic way to preserve chili peppers, offering an explosion of flavor throughout the year.

Preparing the ingredients

1. Cleaning the peppers: Wash the chili peppers and bell peppers well under cold water. Cut the chili peppers lengthwise and remove the seeds if you want a milder jam. Remove seeds from the bell peppers and cut them into smaller pieces to facilitate the grinding process.

2. Grinding: Using a food processor, puree the bell peppers and chili peppers until you achieve a fine paste. It is important not to leave large chunks, as they will not blend well with the sugar syrup.

Making the jam

3. Boiling the syrup: In a large pot, add the vinegar and sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Once the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 5-10 minutes.

4. Adding the pepper paste: Add the bell pepper and chili pepper paste to the pot. Stir well to integrate all ingredients. Let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 40-50 minutes or until the mixture thickens and binds (test with a spoon to check the consistency).

Bottling and storage

5. Bottling: Ensure that the jars are sterilized before filling them. You can do this by boiling or using an oven. Once the jam is ready, pour it into warm jars, leaving about 1 cm of headspace. Seal the jars with lids and turn them upside down to create a vacuum.

6. Cooling: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place. Chili pepper jam can be kept for months, and the flavor intensifies over time.

Useful tips

- Choosing peppers: Experiment with different types of peppers to achieve a jam with varying levels of spiciness. For example, you can combine sweet red peppers with hot green peppers for an interesting contrast.
- Customize the flavor: Add spices like cloves, cinnamon, or ginger during boiling to give the jam a unique and aromatic note.
- Consistency: If you want a less liquid jam, let it boil longer, making sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

A serving idea

Chili pepper jam is delicious when served with aged cheeses like brie or cheddar, adding a delightful contrast. You can also use it as a sauce on grilled meats or burgers, turning every bite into an explosion of flavors. Another idea is to combine it with a serving of Greek yogurt, adding a drizzle of olive oil for an interesting appetizer.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of sugar?
Yes, brown sugar offers a more complex and deep flavor, but white sugar is equally effective.

2. How can I tell if the jam is ready?
A simple way to check the consistency is to drop a few drops on a cold plate; if it binds and does not run, it is ready.

3. How long can the jam be stored?
If properly sterilized, chili pepper jam can be stored in good conditions for 6-12 months.

4. Can I freeze the jam?
It is not recommended to freeze the jam, as the consistency will be affected. It is better to keep it in jars.

Nutritional benefits

Chili peppers are known for their beneficial properties, being rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. They can help boost metabolism and have anti-inflammatory effects. Moderate consumption of chili pepper jam can add a touch of health to your diet.

Possible variations

- Chili pepper jam with mango puree: Add mango puree for an exotic jam, perfect for serving on grilled fish.
- Jam with fruit: Experiment with adding fruits like pears or peaches for a fruitier and more complex jam.

Chili pepper jam is more than just a simple recipe; it is a journey of flavors that will transform your ordinary meals into true feasts. With each filled jar, you will bring a touch of warmth and flavor into your life. Enjoy every bite and share this delicacy with your loved ones!