Hot pepper jam

Hot Pepper Jam: A Surprising and Delicious Condiment

Who would have thought that such a spicy ingredient as hot pepper could become a savory jam? Hot pepper jam is a recipe that perfectly combines sweet and spicy flavors, transforming a simple staple ingredient into a gourmet delight. This recipe will not only add a splash of color and flavor to your dishes but will quickly become a favorite among friends and family. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-5 jars of 250 ml

Ingredients:

- 1 kg hot peppers (preferably red for a sweeter jam)
- 500 g bell peppers (for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors)
- 1 kg sugar
- 1 kg vinegar (preferably wine vinegar for a more complex flavor)

A bit of history

Hot pepper jam has deep roots in culinary traditions. Initially used as a way to preserve vegetables, this recipe has evolved over time, becoming a popular accompaniment for various types of meat. It is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create sophisticated dishes, adding extra flavor to our meals.

Making hot pepper jam

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by carefully washing the hot peppers and bell peppers. It is essential to choose quality hot peppers, free from blemishes or signs of damage. Remove the stems and seeds, as the seeds can add bitterness to the jam. If you prefer a less spicy jam, I suggest using only some of the hot peppers, mixing them with more bell peppers.

Step 2: Chopping the ingredients

Once you have cleaned the peppers, you can finely chop them. If you have a food processor, it can work wonders to achieve a smooth paste. Alternatively, you can use a meat grinder, but make sure the chop is fine enough to integrate well into the jam.

Step 3: Preparing the syrup

In a large pot, combine the sugar and vinegar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the syrup starts to boil, you can reduce the heat to low.

Step 4: Adding the vegetables

When the syrup is ready, add the hot pepper and bell pepper paste. Mix well to ensure that the vegetables are evenly coated with syrup. Let the mixture simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning on the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Checking the consistency

To ensure that the jam has the desired consistency, you can do the drop test: take a drop of jam and let it fall on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and does not spread, it is ready. If not, let it boil for a few more minutes.

Step 6: Bottling

Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully pour the jam into sterilized jars. Make sure to seal the lids well and store the jars in a cool, dark place.

Serving suggestions

Hot pepper jam is perfect to be served alongside grilled meats, aged cheeses, or even on a toast with pâté. It can add a splash of intensity to a simple omelet or be used as a secret ingredient in pasta sauces.

Variations and tricks

- Experiment with different types of peppers: you can combine hot peppers with sweet peppers to achieve a more balanced jam.
- Add spices like garlic, ginger, or cinnamon to the sugar syrup to create a unique flavor.
- If you like a spicier jam, you can add green pepper pods along with the red ones.

Nutritional benefits

Hot pepper jam not only offers a delicious taste but also health benefits. Hot peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, helping to strengthen the immune system. Additionally, capsaicin, the active compound in hot peppers, has anti-inflammatory properties and can boost metabolism.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dried hot peppers?
Yes, but it is recommended to rehydrate them before use to achieve the right texture.

2. How can I preserve the jam longer?
Make sure the jars are properly sterilized and store them in a cool place. Once opened, keep it in the fridge.

3. Can I make the jam less spicy?
Sure! Use fewer hot peppers or add more bell peppers to reduce the intensity.

4. What can I do with leftover jam?
Hot pepper jam can be a wonderful ingredient in meat marinades or salad dressings.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! Hot pepper jam is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that will transform any meal into a feast of flavors. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the final result!