Description
This vibrant and irresistible jam perfectly balances the sweetness of ripe strawberries with a delightful kick of fresh jalapeños, creating a unique preserve that's incredibly versatile.
Ingredients
4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
2-3 medium jalapeños, stemmed, seeded (for less heat) or finely minced (for more heat)
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
4 cups granulated sugar
1 pouch (3 ounces) liquid pectin
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your canning jars and lids by sterilizing them in boiling water or a dishwasher. Keep them hot until ready to fill.
Step 2: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the quartered strawberries, minced jalapeños, and apple cider vinegar.
Step 3: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the strawberries begin to soften. Mash lightly with a potato masher if you prefer a chunkier jam.
Step 4: Add the granulated sugar to the fruit mixture, stirring constantly until it dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil that cannot be stirred down.
Step 5: Stir in the liquid pectin, then boil hard for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. Watch carefully to prevent boil-overs.
Step 6: Remove the pot from the heat. Skim off any foam from the surface with a spoon to ensure clear jam.
Step 7: Ladle the hot jam into the prepared hot jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean with a damp cloth, center lids, and apply bands until fingertip tight.
Step 8: Process jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes (adjusting for altitude as needed). Carefully remove jars with a jar lifter and let them cool undisturbed on a towel for 12-24 hours. Check seals before storing in a cool, dark place.
Notes
For a smoother jam, blend a portion of the strawberries and jalapeños before adding sugar. Always use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor. If not canning, store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Category: Preserves, Condiment
- Method: Water Bath Canning, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 75 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg