Best Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe

Peach Jalapeno Jam is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that captures the essence of summer in a jar. This unique preserve combines ripe, juicy peaches with the fiery kick of jalapeno peppers, creating a versatile condiment that can elevate various dishes. The sweetness of the peaches perfectly balances the heat from the jalapenos, resulting in a complex flavor profile that is both invigorating and comforting.

The process of making Peach Jalapeno Jam involves simmering chopped peaches and finely diced jalapenos with sugar and a splash of lemon juice. The lemon not only adds a bright acidity to the jam but also helps in setting the jam by interacting with the natural pectin found in peaches. As the mixture thickens, it transforms into a golden, sticky concoction that’s packed with chunks of fruit and specks of chili.

This jam is incredibly versatile. It can be used as a glaze for grilled meats, a vibrant addition to cheese platters, or even a surprising twist in cocktails. The balance of sweet and spicy also makes it an excellent topping for warm biscuits or toast, providing a zesty start to the day or a delightful boost to afternoon tea. Peach Jalapeno Jam is not just a condiment; it’s a celebration of flavor that adds a gourmet touch to everyday meals.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large Saucepan – For cooking the jam.
Wooden Spoon – To stir the ingredients and prevent sticking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurately measuring ingredients.
Cutting Board and Knife – To chop peaches and jalapenos.
Jar Lifter – Useful for handling hot jars if you plan to can the jam.
Canning Jars with Lids – For storing the jam; ensure they are sterilized if you’re preserving.
Funnel – Helps in transferring jam to jars without spilling.
Ladle – To scoop jam into jars.
Potato Masher – Optional, for mashing the peaches to the desired consistency.

Ingredients for Peach Jalapeno Jam

Peaches – 3 cups, peeled and chopped into small pieces.
Jalapeno Peppers – 1 large or 2 small, finely diced (adjust based on your heat preference).
Sugar – 1 cup; adjust based on the sweetness of the peaches.
Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons, to help set the jam and add a tangy flavor.
Pectin – 1 tablespoon (optional, depending on desired thickness).

How To Make Peach Jalapeno Jam?

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by washing the peaches and jalapenos thoroughly under running water. Peel the peaches, remove the pits, and chop them into small pieces. For the jalapenos, cut off the stems, slice them in half, and remove the seeds if you prefer a milder jam. Finely dice the jalapenos. Measure all your ingredients accurately to ensure the best results.

Cooking the Jam

Place a large saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Combine the chopped peaches, diced jalapenos, sugar, and lemon juice in the saucepan. Stir the mixture well to distribute the sugar and lemon juice evenly. If you’re using pectin, sprinkle it into the mixture now. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Mashing the Fruit

As the mixture begins to boil, use a potato masher to gently mash the peaches. This helps release their natural juices and breaks them down into smaller pieces, giving your jam a nice texture. Continue to boil the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

Testing the Jam’s Consistency

To test if the jam is set, place a small amount on a cold plate. If it gels up and doesn’t run when you tilt the plate, it’s ready. If it’s too runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.

Canning the Jam

If you plan to preserve the jam, prepare your canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water. Use a funnel and a ladle to carefully fill the hot, sterilized jars with the hot jam, leaving about a quarter-inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth, place the lids on, and tighten the bands.

Processing the Jars

Place the filled jars in a boiling water canner or a large pot of boiling water, ensuring they are completely submerged. Boil them for 10 minutes to seal the lids. Carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a towel to cool. Check the seals after 24 hours; the lids should not pop when pressed.

Storing and Enjoying

Store your sealed jars of Peach Jalapeno Jam in a cool, dark place. They can last for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and use it within a month. Enjoy your homemade jam on toast, as a glaze for meats, or as a unique addition to your cheese board.

What to serve with Peach Jalapeno Jam?

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Add a layer of Peach Jalapeno Jam to elevate this classic comfort food with a sweet and spicy twist.
Roast Pork or Chicken: Use the jam as a glaze during the last few minutes of roasting for a caramelized, flavorful crust.
Cream Cheese Appetizer: Spread cream cheese on a serving plate, top with the jam, and serve with crackers for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Baked Brie: Wrap a wheel of brie in puff pastry, top with the jam, and bake until golden for a decadent treat.
Breakfast Items: Enhance pancakes, waffles, or yogurt with a spoonful of this jam for a zesty breakfast.
Ice Cream Topping: Drizzle over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a surprising dessert flavor combination.
Cheese Pairings: Serve with a cheese board featuring sharp cheddar, goat cheese, or blue cheese for balanced flavors.
Salad Dressing Base: Mix the jam with olive oil and vinegar to create a unique dressing for green or fruit salads.
Cocktails: Stir into cocktails or mocktails for a hint of fruitiness and spice, especially good in margaritas or peach sangria.
Stuffed Meats: Incorporate into the filling for stuffed chicken breasts or pork chops, combining with herbs and breadcrumbs.
Cornbread: Serve alongside or baked into cornbread for a Southern-inspired side dish with a twist.

Tips and Tricks

Select Ripe Peaches: Use peaches that are ripe and juicy for the best natural sweetness and flavor in your jam.
Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeno seeds and membranes you include to control the spiciness of the jam to your liking.
Sterilize Your Jars: Ensure your jars and lids are properly sterilized to extend the shelf life of your jam and prevent contamination.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Opt for fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a better, fresher taste and to help the jam set properly.
Monitor the Cooking Temperature: Keep a close eye on the cooking temperature; too high can cause burning, while too low may prevent proper setting.
Skim the Foam: Skim off any foam that forms on the surface during cooking to achieve a clearer, more aesthetically pleasing jam.
Test the Set: Before canning, test the jam’s consistency by placing a small amount on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.
Enhance Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor complexity that complements both peach and jalapeno.
Keep Stirring: Regular stirring throughout the cooking process helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing and the jam from sticking to the pan.
Use Proper Canning Techniques: Process the filled jars in a boiling water bath to ensure a good seal and prevent spoilage.
Label Your Jars: Always label your jars with the date and contents, so you know when you made your batch and what it contains.

Variations

Mango Peach Jalapeno Jam: Substitute half of the peaches with ripe mangoes for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the heat of the jalapenos.
Raspberry Peach Jalapeno Jam: Add raspberries to the mix for a tart contrast to the sweet peaches and spicy jalapenos.
Smoky Peach Jalapeno Jam: Include a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to introduce a smoky flavor, enhancing the jam’s complexity.
Herbal Peach Jalapeno Jam: Stir in finely chopped fresh basil or thyme at the end of cooking for an herbal note that complements the sweetness of peaches.
Ginger Peach Jalapeno Jam: Add grated fresh ginger for a zingy flavor that stands up well to the sweetness and spice.

Substitutions

Sugar Alternatives: Replace white sugar with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar if you prefer natural sweeteners. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these can be sweeter than sugar.
Pectin-Free Version: If you prefer a more natural set, omit the pectin and cook the jam longer, relying on the natural pectins in the peaches and lemon juice to thicken the jam.
Lime Juice for Lemon Juice: Substitute lime juice for lemon juice to add a different citrus note that pairs well with the jalapenos.
Different Chilies: Replace jalapenos with other types of chilies like habaneros for more heat or bell peppers for a milder version.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Use a splash of apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice for a slight tang and to complement the fruit flavors.

Making ahead, Storage and Shelf life of Peach Jalapeno Jam

Making Ahead

Peach Jalapeno Jam can be made in large batches when peaches are in season, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. Preparing the jam ahead of time not only maximizes seasonal produce but also provides you with a handy, delicious condiment or gift at a moment’s notice.

Storage

Unopened Jars: Properly canned and sealed jars of Peach Jalapeno Jam should be stored in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid areas with direct sunlight or extreme temperature fluctuations to maintain the quality of the jam.
Opened Jars: Once opened, store the jam in the refrigerator. Make sure the lid is tight to minimize exposure to air, which can lead to spoilage.

Shelf Life

Unopened: When properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, Peach Jalapeno Jam can last for up to one year without significant loss of quality or flavor. Regularly check the seals of the jars; if a seal is broken or if the jar lid pops up when pressed, discard the jam as it may have spoiled.
Opened: In the refrigerator, opened jam will generally keep well for about 2-3 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to remove jam from the jar, as introducing bacteria can shorten its shelf life.

Nutritional Facts

Calories: Approximately 50-60 calories per tablespoon. The primary source of calories in Peach Jalapeno Jam comes from sugars.
Carbohydrates: Around 14-16 grams per tablespoon, with most of these coming from sugars (both natural and added).
Fiber: About 0.2 grams per tablespoon, due to the natural fiber in the peaches and jalapenos.
Protein: Minimal protein content, typically less than 0.1 grams per tablespoon.
Fat: Negligible amounts of fat, as fruits and sugar contain no fat.
Vitamins and Minerals: Small amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A, primarily from the peaches and jalapenos. There may also be minor amounts of potassium.

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s

Peach Jalapeno Jam is a sweet and spicy condiment made from ripe peaches and jalapeno peppers. It combines the natural sweetness of peaches with the heat of jalapenos, often enhanced with sugar and lemon juice to balance the flavors and aid in preservation.

This versatile jam can be used in numerous ways. It serves as an excellent glaze for meats, a vibrant addition to cheese platters, a flavorful spread for sandwiches, or even a unique twist in cocktails. It can also be enjoyed simply spread on toast or biscuits.

Yes, you can make Peach Jalapeno Jam with less sugar or substitute natural sweeteners like honey or agave nectar. Keep in mind that reducing sugar may affect the texture and shelf life of the jam, as sugar acts as a natural preservative.

The spiciness of Peach Jalapeno Jam can vary depending on the amount of jalapenos used and whether the seeds and membranes are included. Removing the seeds and membranes can reduce the heat, making the jam more palatable for those who prefer a milder flavor.

When properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, unopened Peach Jalapeno Jam can last up to a year. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and ideally used within 2-3 weeks to maintain the best quality and flavor.

Peach Jalapeno Jam

Recipe by JesseCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

kcal

Ingredients

Peaches – 3 cups, peeled and chopped into small pieces.
Jalapeno Peppers – 1 large or 2 small, finely diced (adjust based on your heat preference).
Sugar – 1 cup; adjust based on the sweetness of the peaches.
Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons, to help set the jam and add a tangy flavor.
Pectin – 1 tablespoon (optional, depending on desired thickness).

Directions

Start by washing the peaches and jalapenos thoroughly under running water. Peel the peaches, remove the pits, and chop them into small pieces. For the jalapenos, cut off the stems, slice them in half, and remove the seeds if you prefer a milder jam. Finely dice the jalapenos. Measure all your ingredients accurately to ensure the best results.
Place a large saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Combine the chopped peaches, diced jalapenos, sugar, and lemon juice in the saucepan. Stir the mixture well to distribute the sugar and lemon juice evenly. If you’re using pectin, sprinkle it into the mixture now. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
As the mixture begins to boil, use a potato masher to gently mash the peaches. This helps release their natural juices and breaks them down into smaller pieces, giving your jam a nice texture. Continue to boil the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
To test if the jam is set, place a small amount on a cold plate. If it gels up and doesn’t run when you tilt the plate, it’s ready. If it’s too runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
If you plan to preserve the jam, prepare your canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water. Use a funnel and a ladle to carefully fill the hot, sterilized jars with the hot jam, leaving about a quarter-inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth, place the lids on, and tighten the bands.
Place the filled jars in a boiling water canner or a large pot of boiling water, ensuring they are completely submerged. Boil them for 10 minutes to seal the lids. Carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a towel to cool. Check the seals after 24 hours; the lids should not pop when pressed.
Store your sealed jars of Peach Jalapeno Jam in a cool, dark place. They can last for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and use it within a month. Enjoy your homemade jam on toast, as a glaze for meats, or as a unique addition to your cheese board.

Conclusion

Peach Jalapeno Jam is an exquisite blend of flavors that combines the sweetness of peaches with the fiery kick of jalapenos. This jam not only enhances the taste of various dishes but also brings a unique twist to traditional condiments.

Whether used as a glaze for meats, a spread on sandwiches, or an accompaniment to cheeses, it offers a delightful surprise to the palate. Its versatility and vibrant flavor profile make it a favorite in kitchens that appreciate a blend of sweet and spicy. Making it at home allows for customization of sweetness and heat, ensuring a perfect match for any taste preference.

Best Peach Jalapeno Jam Recipe

Kitchen Tools Needed

Ingredients for Peach Jalapeno Jam