Sweet Chilli Jam

INTRODUCTION

Sweet Chilli Jam is a flavorful and versatile condiment. It has a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness, which makes it an amazing addition to various dishes. This jam can enhance the taste of meats, cheeses, and even snacks. Making Sweet Chilli Jam at home is simple and satisfying. Once you try it, you will see how easy it is to make this delicious jam.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love Sweet Chilli Jam. First, the combination of red peppers and chillies gives it a unique flavor. It is sweet, spicy, and offers a hint of garlicky goodness. Second, making it at home means you control the ingredients and the level of spice. You can adjust the flavors based on your preference. Using fresh ingredients ensures that your jam tastes great. Lastly, this jam is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it with breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even with snacks. Once you make this sweet, spicy jam, it will likely become a staple in your kitchen.

HOW TO MAKE Sweet Chilli Jam

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Sweet Chilli Jam, you will need some essential kitchen equipment. Having the right tools will make the process easier and more enjoyable.

1. Food Processor: You need this to chop all the ingredients finely.
2. Heavy-Bottomed Pan: It helps to cook the jam evenly without burning.
3. Cooking Spoon: Use this to stir the mixture as it cooks.
4. Jar Funnel: This will make it easier to pour the jam into jars without making a mess.
5. Sterilized Jars: You’ll need these to store your jam safely.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 red peppers, deseeded and roughly chopped
• 10 red chillies, roughly chopped
• Finger-sized piece fresh root ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
• 8 garlic cloves, peeled
• 400g can cherry tomatoes
• 750g golden caster sugar
• 250ml red wine vinegar

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping the red peppers and chillies. Remove the seeds from the red peppers to make the jam sweeter.
2. Chop the Ingredients: Take the chopped peppers, chopped chillies (with seeds), ginger, and garlic cloves. Put them in the food processor. Whizz until everything is very finely chopped.
3. Combine Everything in a Pan: Scrape the mixture from the food processor into a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the cherry tomatoes, caster sugar, and red wine vinegar to the pan.
4. Cook the Mixture: Turn the heat on to medium-high. Bring everything to a boil. As the mixture heats, you may notice some scum rising to the surface. Use a spoon to skim this off.
5. Simmer: Once the mixture is boiling, turn the heat down to a simmer. Cook for about 50 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
6. Check Consistency: After 50 minutes, check the jam. It should start to become sticky. Cook for another 10-15 minutes while stirring often. The jam will look like thick, bubbling lava when it’s ready.
7. Cool and Store: Remove the jam from the heat. Let it cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars. Make sure to leave some space at the top of each jar. Let the jars cool completely before sealing them.
8. Storage: This Sweet Chilli Jam will keep for up to three months in a cool, dark cupboard. If you open a jar, it’s best to refrigerate it.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Sweet Chilli Jam

Sweet Chilli Jam can be served in various ways. You can spread it on toast, use it as a dip with spring rolls or crackers, or pair it with cheese. It also works well as a glaze on grilled meats. Try adding a spoonful of it to your stir-fry for an extra kick of flavor. The options are endless!

STORAGE & FREEZING : Sweet Chilli Jam

Store your Sweet Chilli Jam in a cool, dark place. Use sterilized jars to help it last longer. Once you open a jar, keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. This jam can last for up to three months when properly stored. For freezing, pour the jam into airtight containers. You can freeze it for longer storage. When you want to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your Sweet Chilli Jam:

• Serve it as a dipping sauce with fried or grilled items.
• Spread it on a cheese platter alongside crackers and various cheeses.
• Use it to glaze meats before baking or grilling, like chicken or pork.
• Add a spoonful to a sandwich for extra flavor.
• Mix it into salad dressings for a spicy twist.

VARIATIONS

There are several ways to customize your Sweet Chilli Jam:

• Different Peppers: Use various types of peppers for different flavors. You can mix sweet and hot peppers to balance the heat.
• Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro can give a fresh touch to the jam.
• Fruits: Try incorporating fruits like mangoes or pineapples for a fruity twist.
• Vinegar: Use different types of vinegar for unique flavors. Apple cider vinegar can add a fruity note.

FAQs

1. Can I adjust the spice level of the Sweet Chilli Jam?

Yes! You can adjust the number of chillies based on your taste. If you prefer it milder, use fewer chillies or remove the seeds.

2. How long does Sweet Chilli Jam last once opened?

Once opened, it is best to refrigerate the jam. It will last for about three months when stored properly in the fridge.

3. Can I make this jam vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based, making the Sweet Chilli Jam vegan-friendly.

4. What if my jam doesn’t set?

If your jam doesn’t thicken as expected, you can boil it a bit longer. Keep stirring until it reaches the desired consistency.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Sweet Chilli Jam

Making Sweet Chilli Jam ahead of time is a great idea. You can prepare it well before you plan to use it, allowing the flavors to develop. Here are some tips:

• Make the jam at least a day in advance to let the flavors blend.
• Store it in sterilized jars to ensure it lasts longer.
• Prepare a larger batch so you always have some on hand for last-minute meals or snacks.

With these suggestions, your Sweet Chilli Jam will be amazing and ready to enjoy whenever you want.

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