Description
This Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the spicy kick of jalapeños or serrano peppers, balanced by apple cider vinegar and lemon juice. Sweetened with sugar and thickened with liquid pectin, this vibrant jam is perfect for adding a flavorful twist to your cheese boards, sandwiches, or grilled meats. It’s an exciting blend of sweet, tart, and heat that’s easy to make and preserves well with water bath canning.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit and Peppers
- 4 cups fresh cranberries
- 2-3 hot peppers (jalapeños or serrano), finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
Liquids
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Sweetener and Gelling Agent
- 4 cups sugar
- 1 pouch (3 oz) liquid pectin
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberries and Peppers: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly under cold water. Finely chop the hot peppers, removing the seeds if you prefer a milder heat level. Set these ingredients aside.
- Cook the Mixture: In a large pot, combine the fresh cranberries, chopped hot peppers, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Sugar: Once boiling, gradually add the sugar while stirring constantly to help it dissolve evenly. Continue cooking the mixture for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, during which the cranberries will pop and the jam begins to thicken.
- Add the Pectin: Stir in the liquid pectin thoroughly. Return the mixture to a boil and maintain the boil for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the pectin activates for proper gel formation. Then, remove the pot from heat.
- Jar the Jam: Using a ladle, carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean to ensure a proper seal, then place sterilized lids and rings on the jars.
- Process the Jars: Submerge the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to preserve the jam safely. After processing, remove the jars and let them cool undisturbed on a towel until the lids seal with a popping sound indicating proper preservation.
Notes
- Removing pepper seeds reduces heat intensity but retains flavor; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized before filling to prevent spoilage.
- Use a candy or jam thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the right temperature for pectin activation if desired.
- This jam is great paired with cream cheese, grilled meats, or as a glaze.
- Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place and refrigerate after opening.
- Adjust sugar quantity slightly based on preferred sweetness and tartness of your cranberries.
