Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Yield: 4 half-pint jars (approximately 32 ounces)
Cuisine: American
Course: Condiment / Spread
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 medium jalapeño peppers, finely minced
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 packet (1.75 ounces) fruit pectin
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat
- 1 tablespoon honey for added depth of flavor
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or stockpot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Potato masher
- Sterilized jam jars with lids
- Funnel
- Ladle
How to Make Strawberry Jalapeño Jam
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the stems and hulls, then chop the berries into small pieces. Place them in a large saucepan and gently mash using a potato masher. Leave some chunks if you prefer a more textured jam.
Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños
Wash the jalapeños and remove the stems. For a milder jam, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. If you prefer a spicier jam, leave some or all of the seeds intact. Finely mince the peppers.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the mashed strawberries, minced jalapeños, lemon juice, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Pectin
Sprinkle the pectin into the fruit mixture while stirring continuously. Continue stirring for 2 to 3 minutes to ensure the pectin dissolves completely.
Step 5: Add the Sugar
Gradually add the sugar while stirring constantly. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil that cannot be stirred down.
Boil for approximately 1 minute while stirring frequently.
Step 6: Check Consistency
Remove the saucepan from the heat. To test the consistency, place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then run your finger through it. If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it is ready.
If the jam is too thin, return it to the heat and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 7: Fill the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top.
Wipe the jar rims clean and secure the lids tightly.
Step 8: Process the Jars
For long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Remove and allow them to cool completely at room temperature.
You should hear a popping sound as the lids seal.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the number of peppers.
- Stir frequently to prevent scorching.
- Always use sterilized jars for safe preservation.
Flavor Variations
Extra Spicy Version
Add an additional jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Strawberry Jalapeño Lime Jam
Replace the lemon juice with fresh lime juice for a bright citrus twist.
Honey Strawberry Jalapeño Jam
Substitute ¼ cup of sugar with honey for a richer flavor profile.
Strawberry Jalapeño Vanilla Jam
Stir in vanilla extract after cooking for a warm, dessert-like taste.
Serving Suggestions
This sweet and spicy jam is incredibly versatile.
Serve it with:
- Toast and English muffins
- Biscuits and scones
- Cream cheese and crackers
- Grilled chicken
- Pork tenderloin
- Burgers and sandwiches
- Charcuterie boards
- Baked brie
- Roasted vegetables
The combination of sweet strawberries and spicy jalapeños creates a gourmet flavor that complements both savory and sweet dishes.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store opened jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Freezer
Freeze jam in freezer-safe containers for up to 12 months.
Canned Storage
Properly processed and sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes. Thaw and drain frozen strawberries before using them in the recipe.
How spicy is this jam?
The spice level is generally mild to medium. Removing the seeds reduces the heat significantly.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Sugar helps with preservation and texture. If reducing sugar, use a low-sugar pectin specifically designed for reduced-sugar recipes.
Why didn’t my jam set?
The jam may need additional cooking time, or the pectin may not have been fully activated. Refrigeration often helps the jam firm up further.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Servings Per Jar: Approximately 32
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: 45
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.3g
- Total Sugars: 11g
- Added Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin C: 6% Daily Value
- Potassium: 25mg