Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam is a delightful combination of sweet peaches and a kick of heat from jalapeños, creating a unique and vibrant jam. Perfect for hot summer days, this recipe will add a burst of flavor to your breakfast toast, cheese plates, or even as a marinade for grilled meats.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam allows you to preserve the wonderful flavors of summer. The sweetness of the peaches paired with the spicy jalapeños creates a delightful balance that can elevate many dishes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use fresh fruit and add a spicy twist to your pantry staples. This homemade jam is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a thoughtful gift for friends and family, bringing a taste of summer to any occasion.
How to Make Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam
Ingredients:
- 3 cups ripe peaches, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely minced (seeds removed for milder heat)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Directions:
- Add the peaches, bell pepper, jalapeños, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt to a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until thick and jammy.
- Mash lightly with a spoon or potato masher for a smoother texture if desired.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly—the jam will thicken more as it cools.
- Spoon into clean jars and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
Pro Tips for Success Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam
- Choose Ripe Peaches: Select ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. Firm peaches can work too, but they may lead to a less intense fruit flavor in the jam.
- Adjust Heat Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with one jalapeño and taste as you go. You can always add more later!
- Texture Preference: For a chunkier jam, mash lightly. If you prefer smoothness, keep mashing until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Sterilize Jars: Ensure your jars are clean and sterilized to prolong the shelf life of your jam.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons for juice and zest will give your jam a bright flavor, so avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
Flavor Variations Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam
- Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh herbs, like mint or cilantro, during the simmering process to add an earthy twist.
- Spicy Peach-Mango Jam: Substitute half of the peaches with ripe mango for a tropical flavor with a similar spicy kick.
- Smoky Variation: Incorporate some smoked paprika during cooking for an added depth of flavor that complements the heat.
- Ginger Zest: Add a tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for a warming touch that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute some lemon juice with lime juice for a tangy, zesty flavor.
Serving Suggestions Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam
- On Toast: Spread it over warm toast or bagels for a sweet and spicy breakfast.
- Cheese Pairing: Serve alongside a cheese platter featuring rich cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The sweetness and heat make for a fantastic matchup.
- Glaze for Grilled Meats: Use it as a glaze on grilled chicken, pork, or fish for a flavorful and colorful meal presentation.
- Dip for Snacks: Mix the jam with cream cheese for a tasty dip served with crackers or veggie sticks at your next gathering.
- Ice Cream Topping: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a sweet and spicy dessert.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam
Keep your Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam refrigerated in clean, airtight jars. It will remain fresh for up to three weeks. If you wish to store it longer, consider freezing the jam in freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some room for expansion as the jam freezes. It will maintain its best quality for about six months.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|———|
| Calories | 80 |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
FAQ About Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam
Can I use frozen peaches in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the jam.
How can I reduce sugar in this recipe?
If you want to cut down on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like agave syrup or honey. Just keep in mind that it might affect the setting and sweetness of the jam.
What should I do if my jam doesn’t thicken?
If your jam doesn’t thicken as expected, you can return it to the heat and simmer it for a bit longer, stirring frequently. If you’re still having trouble, consider adding a small amount of commercial pectin to help it set.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use a large enough pot to handle the increased volume. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly, so keep an eye on the consistency while it simmers.
Is this recipe suitable for canning?
While this recipe is a great refrigerator jam, if you wish to can it for long-term storage, be sure to follow proper canning guidelines for safety. Use sterilized jars and follow recommended processing times for a safe, shelf-stable product.
Final Thoughts
Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam is not just a jam; it’s an experience. With its perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, it embodies the essence of summer in a jar. Whether you enjoy it on a piece of toast, use it as a finishing touch on grilled meats, or gift it to loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy creating and savoring every delicious bite!
Print
Peach–Jalapeño Summer Pepper Jam
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful combination of sweet peaches and spicy jalapeños, this vibrant jam enhances breakfast toast, cheese plates, and grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 3 cups ripe peaches, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely minced (seeds removed)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Add the peaches, bell pepper, jalapeños, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt to a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until thick and jammy.
- Mash lightly with a spoon or potato masher for a smoother texture if desired.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly—the jam will thicken more as it cools.
- Spoon into clean jars and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor. Adjust heat levels based on jalapeño quantity and consider adding fresh herbs for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
