Hot pepper jam

Hot pepper jam is a surprising delicacy that combines sweetness with a spicy note, offering a unique tasting experience. This simple yet captivating recipe will help you transform a few hot peppers into something truly special, perfect for enjoying alongside cheeses, meats, or as a secret ingredient in various dishes.

Total time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 jars

Ingredients:
- 1 kg hot peppers (choose according to your taste, from mildly spicy to very spicy)
- 1 kg sugar
- 1 liter vinegar (white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are highly recommended)

Necessary utensils:
- A sharp knife
- A large pot
- Clean, dry glass jars
- A lid for each jar
- A cloth or blanket

Brief history:
Hot pepper jam has its origins in ancient traditions, used as a way to preserve peppers and add a flavor note to meat or cheese dishes. This combination of sweet and spicy is appreciated by food lovers worldwide, becoming a versatile ingredient in modern kitchens.

Step by step in making hot pepper jam:

Step 1: Preparing the peppers
Start by washing the hot peppers well under cold running water. Remove the stems and cut them in half, removing the seeds to control the level of spiciness. If you prefer a spicier jam, you can leave some seeds. Cut them into small cubes; the smaller they are, the better they will integrate into the syrup.

Step 2: Preparing the syrup
In a large pot, pour the vinegar and add the sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve completely. When the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Boiling the peppers
Add the cubes of hot peppers to the vinegar and sugar syrup. Let the mixture simmer on low heat, stirring periodically. The boiling process will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The jam is ready when it becomes thicker and the peppers change color. A trick to check the consistency is to put a drop of jam on a cold plate; if it doesn’t run, it’s ready.

Step 4: Jarring the jam
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat. Using a ladle, pour the hot jam into the clean, dry jars. Make sure to leave a little space at the top of each jar. Place the lids on the jars and tighten them well.

Step 5: Preserving the jam
Turn the jars upside down and wrap them in a blanket or a thick cloth. This method helps seal the jars and maintain temperature, contributing to better preservation of the jam. Leave them like this until the next day.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the peppers: You can experiment with different types of hot peppers, such as jalapeños or habaneros, to achieve various levels of intensity.
- Serving variations: Hot pepper jam pairs excellently with feta or cheddar cheese, as well as grilled meat. You can add it to sauces for an extra burst of flavor.
- Storing the jam: Hot pepper jam keeps well at room temperature, but after opening, store it in the refrigerator.

Nutritional benefits:
Hot peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, having beneficial effects on health. Moderate consumption of hot peppers can boost metabolism and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I reduce the spiciness? – If you want a less spicy jam, you can use milder hot peppers or remove all the seeds.
2. How long does the jam last? – If well sealed, the jam can be kept for up to a year. After opening, consume it within a few months.
3. Can I add other ingredients? – Yes, you can experiment with spices like cinnamon or cloves to add another level of flavor complexity.

Conclusion:
Hot pepper jam is a simple and quick recipe that brings a touch of adventure to your kitchen. With each jar you fill, you bring not only a delicious ingredient but also a part of the gastronomic story of culinary traditions. Whether you enjoy it on a slice of toasted bread or as a topping for a steak, this jam will transform every meal into a memorable experience. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, to enjoy the magic of sweet and spicy together!