If you adore the lively burst of fresh fruit combined with a spicy kick, you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe. This jam perfectly balances the sweet juiciness of ripe peaches with just the right amount of jalapeno heat, creating a vibrant spread that’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re slathering it on your morning toast, pairing it with cheeses, or adding a zing to your favorite dishes, this Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe brings a delightful flavor experience to your table and kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a vital role. From the sweetness of peaches to the spicy warmth of jalapenos and the zesty brightness of lemon juice, every component enhances the jam’s flavor, texture, and color.
- 4 cups peeled and chopped peaches: Fresh, juicy peaches provide the natural sweetness and beautiful color of the jam.
- 1-2 jalapenos, finely chopped: Adjust according to your spice preference for that perfect gentle heat contrast.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances sweetness while helping the jam set properly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Offers a subtle warmth and aromatic depth to elevate flavor complexity.
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin: Essential for that ideal jam consistency with just the right firmness.
- 5 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the jam and aids in preservation, making your jam last longer.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps cook down the ingredients evenly and achieve the perfect texture.
How to Make Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Jars
Start by sterilizing your canning jars and lids to ensure your jam stays fresh and safe. You can do this easily by boiling them in hot water or running them through a dishwasher cycle. Once cleaned, set them aside to dry completely.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
In a large pot, mix together the chopped peaches, jalapenos, fresh lemon juice, and ground ginger. This combination not only creates a vibrant flavor foundation but also ensures the spicy and sweet notes meld beautifully as they cook.
Step 3: Simmer Until Soft
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the peaches soften and begin to release their natural juices, creating a luscious base for your jam.
Step 4: Add Fruit Pectin
Sprinkle in the fruit pectin and stir well. This ingredient is your jam’s best friend for achieving that perfect set, giving your jam structure without compromising the fresh flavor.
Step 5: Sweeten and Boil
Slowly add the sugar to your pot while stirring constantly. Once all the sugar has dissolved, raise the heat and bring your mixture to a rolling boil. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently. Test the jam’s firmness by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when you push it, you know it’s ready.
Step 6: Jar Your Jam
Carefully ladle the hot jam into your prepared jars, leaving about a 1/4 inch gap at the top. This space is important for safe sealing and expansion during processing.
Step 7: Seal and Process
Place sterilized lids on the jars and seal tightly. To ensure a perfect seal and extended shelf life, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Allow your jars to cool at room temperature completely. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place, where they will keep for up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate and enjoy within three weeks for the best taste.
How to Serve Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of this Peach Jalapeno Jam on a cheese board truly transforms the experience—try it with creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar. Adding a sprig of fresh mint or a few thinly sliced jalapenos on top can give an extra layer of aroma and color.
Side Dishes
This jam shines as a sweet and spicy condiment alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even dolloped on warm cornbread. Its vibrant taste complements smoky or savory flavors, making it a wonderful addition to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not try stirring some Peach Jalapeno Jam into your vinaigrettes or marinades for a surprising twist? It also makes a lively glaze for baked goods or as a topping for pancakes and waffles, adding that perfect balance of sweet and heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers after opening a jar, store the jam in the refrigerator. The cool environment will keep it fresh, bursting with flavor, and ready to enjoy for up to three weeks.
Freezing
You can freeze Peach Jalapeno Jam if you want to keep it longer or save for special occasions. Use airtight containers or freezer-safe jars, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion. Frozen jam retains its flavor for several months.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen jam, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can gently warm it on the stove or microwave for easier spreading or mixing, but avoid boiling again to preserve the fresh taste.
FAQs
How spicy is the Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe?
The heat level depends entirely on how many jalapenos you use and how finely they are chopped. Starting with one jalapeno offers a mild kick, but feel free to add more for increased heat if you love that fiery touch.
Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peaches work just fine. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before starting the jam to maintain the right consistency.
What is the purpose of fruit pectin in the recipe?
Fruit pectin helps the jam set by thickening it and giving it the perfect spreadable texture. It ensures your Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe doesn’t turn out too runny.
How long will the jam last after opening?
Once opened, store the jam in the refrigerator and consume within three weeks for the best flavor and freshness.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely! This recipe uses 5 cups of sugar to balance the heat and acidity, but you can reduce it slightly if you prefer a less sweet jam. Keep in mind that sugar also affects texture and preservation.
Final Thoughts
This Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves vibrant, fresh flavors with a spicy twist. It’s surprisingly simple to make, wonderfully versatile, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I highly encourage you to give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delightful jar of sunshine and heat in your kitchen.
Print
Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 5 half-pint jars
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Peach Jalapeno Jam combines the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with a spicy kick from jalapenos, balanced by fresh lemon juice and a hint of ground ginger. Perfect as a condiment on toast, cheese boards, or grilled meats, this jam is made with natural fruit pectin for a firm, delicious texture.
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 4 cups peeled and chopped peaches (about 4 large peaches)
- 1–2 jalapenos, finely chopped (depending on desired spice level)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare jars: Sterilize your canning jars and lids by either boiling them in hot water or running them through the dishwasher, then set aside to dry thoroughly.
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, mix together the peeled and chopped peaches, finely chopped jalapenos, fresh lemon juice, and ground ginger to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Simmer fruit: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until the peaches soften and begin to release their juices, stirring occasionally.
- Add pectin: Stir in the fruit pectin packet until it fully dissolves, ensuring the jam will set properly.
- Add sugar and cook: Gradually add the sugar while stirring constantly. Once dissolved, bring the jam to a rolling boil and continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens. Test by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; it should wrinkle when pushed.
- Fill jars: Remove the jam from heat and carefully ladle it into the prepared sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top for expansion.
- Seal and process: Seal jars with their sterilized lids and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to secure a safe seal for storage.
- Cool and store: Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature. Store in a cool, dark place for up to one year. After opening, refrigerate and consume within three weeks.
Notes
- Adjust jalapeno quantity based on your desired spice level, removing seeds will reduce heat.
- Ensure sterilized jars are completely dry to prevent spoilage.
- Use fresh, ripe peaches for optimal sweetness and flavor.
- Test jam consistency on a cold plate to avoid under or over cooking.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, mash peaches slightly before cooking.
- Boiling water bath processing is essential for shelf-stable storage.
