Introduction:
Are you a fan of adding a burst of flavor to your dishes? Look no further than this delightful homemade Sweet and Spicy chili jam! This versatile condiment is not only easy to make but also packs a punch of heat and sweetness that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
Before you embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 500g fresh red chillies
- Five cloves of garlic
- One red bell pepper
- One yellow bell pepper
- One thumb-sized piece of ginger
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 750g granulated sugar
- One teaspoon salt
- Juice of 2 lemons
- One teaspoon of coriander seeds (optional for added aroma)
Equipment:
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Food processor or blender
- Large, heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Sterilized jars for storage
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Wash and de-stem the red chilies. If you prefer a milder jam, you can remove the seeds.
Peel and roughly chop the garlic.
Deseed and chop the red and yellow bell peppers into chunks.
Peel and finely grate the ginger.
Blitz in the Food Processor:
Place the chilies, garlic, bell peppers, and ginger in a food processor.
Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. You can adjust the texture according to your preference.
Cooking the Base:
Transfer the chopped mixture to a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan.
Add apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and optional coriander seeds.
Stir well to combine the ingredients.
Bringing to a Boil:
Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently.
Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
Simmering and Reducing:
Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 40-45 minutes or until it thickens to a jam-like consistency.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Testing for Consistency:
To check if the jam has reached the desired consistency, place a small amount on a chilled plate. It should set and wrinkle when touched.
Adding Lemon Juice:
Squeeze the juice of two lemons into the jam and stir well.
The lemon juice adds a citrusy brightness that balances the sweetness and heat.
Cooling and Jarring:
Allow the chili jam to cool slightly before pouring it into sterilized jars.
Seal the jars while the jam is still warm to create a vacuum seal.
Storage and Serving:
Store the jars in a cool, dark place. The jam can be kept for several months.
Enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Chilli Jam as a condiment with cheese, grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a glaze for roasted vegetables.
Conclusion:
Congratulations, you’ve just created a batch of homemade Sweet and Spicy chili jam! Embrace the joy of experimenting with different dishes and discover how this versatile condiment can elevate your culinary creations. Share your delicious creation with friends and family, and let the bold flavors of this homemade jam become a staple in your kitchen.
