Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Intensity: Mild to Medium Heat
Cuisine: American
Course: Condiment, Spread, Preserve
Ingredients
4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 medium jalapeño peppers, finely diced
3 cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 package (1.75 ounces) fruit pectin
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Ingredients
1 additional jalapeño for extra heat
½ teaspoon vanilla extract for added depth
1 teaspoon lime zest for a citrus twist
Equipment Needed
Large saucepan or jam pot
Wooden spoon
Potato masher
Measuring cups and spoons
Sterilized glass jars with lids
Ladle
Jar funnel (optional)
How to Make Strawberry Jalapeño Jam
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cool running water. Remove the stems and hulls, then chop the berries into small pieces. Place them into a large saucepan.
Using a potato masher, gently mash the strawberries until they reach your desired consistency. Some people prefer a smoother jam, while others enjoy small fruit chunks.
Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños
Wash the jalapeño peppers carefully. Remove the stems and finely dice the peppers.
For a milder jam, remove the seeds and white membranes before chopping. For a hotter version, leave some or all of the seeds intact.
Add the diced jalapeños to the saucepan with the strawberries.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the lemon juice and salt to the fruit mixture. Stir well to combine.
In a separate bowl, mix the fruit pectin with a small amount of sugar to help prevent clumping.
Add the pectin mixture to the saucepan and stir thoroughly.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently.
A rolling boil is one that continues bubbling even while being stirred.
Step 5: Add Sugar
Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, gradually add the remaining sugar while stirring constantly.
Continue stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 6: Check the Consistency
To test whether the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate.
Allow it to cool for about 30 seconds. Push the jam gently with your finger. If it wrinkles slightly and holds its shape, it is ready.
If the mixture remains too runny, continue cooking for another minute and test again.
Step 7: Fill the Jars
Remove the saucepan from heat.
Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top.
Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth and secure the lids.
Step 8: Process and Seal
For long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Remove the jars and place them on a towel-lined surface.
Allow them to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours. Check that the lids have sealed properly before storing.
Tips for Success
Use ripe, flavorful strawberries for the best taste.
Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the number of jalapeños.
Stir frequently to prevent scorching.
Always use sterilized jars to ensure food safety.
Fresh lemon juice enhances flavor and helps preserve color.
Do not overcook the jam, as it may become overly thick after cooling.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Jalapeño Jam pairs beautifully with a variety of foods:
Spread on warm toast or biscuits
Served with cream cheese and crackers
Added to charcuterie boards
Used as a glaze for grilled chicken
Brushed onto pork tenderloin
Swirled into yogurt
Spoon over baked brie
Used as a topping for cheesecake
Mixed into salad dressings
Added to sandwiches for sweet heat
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store opened jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Pantry
Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to 12 months.
Freezer
Freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.
Flavor Profile
This jam delivers a delightful combination of flavors. The strawberries provide rich fruit sweetness, while the jalapeños contribute a gentle heat that develops gradually. Lemon juice brightens the overall taste and balances the sweetness. The result is a complex, well-rounded preserve that appeals to both sweet and savory food lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this jam less spicy?
Yes. Simply remove all jalapeño seeds and membranes before chopping. You can also reduce the number of peppers used.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely. Thaw and drain them before using for best results.
Can I make this recipe without pectin?
Yes, but the cooking time will increase significantly, and the final texture may be softer.
How do I know if the jars sealed correctly?
Press the center of each lid after cooling. If it does not flex up and down, the jar is properly sealed.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Servings Per Jar: Approximately 8
Calories: 45
Carbohydrates: 11g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Fiber: 0.3g
Sodium: 5mg
Potassium: 20mg