Homemade Blackberry Jalapeño Jam

Blackberry Jalapeño Jam is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a unique addition to your pantry. Whether you spread it over toast, pair it with cheese, or use it as a glaze for meats, this jam is sure to impress. The combination of juicy blackberries and spicy jalapeños creates a complex flavor profile that is both bold and irresistible.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about making homemade blackberry jalapeño jam, from gathering ingredients to serving suggestions.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start making your blackberry jalapeño jam, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Potato masher or immersion blender
• Ladle
• Fine-mesh strainer (optional for seedless jam)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Candy thermometer
• Sterilized glass jars with lids
• Canning funnel
• Tongs
• Cutting board and knife
• Gloves (to handle jalapeños safely)

What Do You Need to Prepare Blackberry Jalapeño Jam?

Here are the essential ingredients for making blackberry jalapeño jam:

• 4 cups fresh blackberries (or frozen, thawed)
• 2-3 medium jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to spice preference)
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (to balance flavors)

How to Make Blackberry Jalapeño Jam Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash the blackberries thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves. Dice the jalapeños finely, removing the seeds for a milder flavor or keeping them for extra heat. Wear gloves to avoid irritation.

Step 2: Mash the Blackberries

In a large pot, add the blackberries and mash them using a potato masher or immersion blender until they reach a chunky consistency.

Step 3: Cook the Blackberry and Jalapeño Mixture

Add the chopped jalapeños, lemon juice, and water to the mashed blackberries. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 4: Add the Sugar and Pectin

Gradually stir in the sugar and salt, ensuring it dissolves completely. Sprinkle the pectin evenly while stirring continuously.

Step 5: Boil the Jam

Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature, ensuring it reaches 220°F (104°C) for proper setting.

Step 6: Test for Thickness

Place a spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. If it thickens and wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it is ready. If not, boil for another 1-2 minutes and retest.

Step 7: Sterilize and Fill the Jars

Sterilize glass jars by boiling them in hot water for 10 minutes. Carefully ladle the jam into the jars using a canning funnel, leaving about 1/4-inch space at the top.

Step 8: Seal and Process the Jars

Wipe jar rims clean, place the lids on, and tighten them. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Remove jars from the water bath and let them cool at room temperature. Check that the lids have sealed properly by pressing on the center—if it doesn’t pop back, it’s sealed.

Variations

• Mild Version: Use only one jalapeño or remove all seeds for a gentle heat.
• Berry Mix: Replace half the blackberries with raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Honey Sweetened: Substitute half the sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
• Herbal Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

Cooking Note

• Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Adjust sugar based on the ripeness of the blackberries; riper berries may require less sugar.
• Stir continuously to prevent burning at the bottom of the pot.
• If making a seedless jam, strain the mashed berries through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the pectin.

Serving Suggestions

• Spread on warm toast or bagels.
• Serve as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
• Pair with cream cheese and crackers for an elegant appetizer.
• Use as a glaze for grilled meats like chicken or pork.
• Mix into yogurt or oatmeal for a flavorful breakfast.

Helpful Tips

• Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
• If the jam is too thick, add a little water and reheat to desired consistency.
• Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
• Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and consume within 3 weeks.
• Label jars with the date to keep track of freshness.

Tips for the Best Blackberry Jalapeño Jam

• Choose ripe, juicy blackberries for maximum flavor.
• Boil the jam at the correct temperature to ensure proper setting.
• Test for thickness before canning to avoid overly runny or thick jam.
• Balance the sweetness and spice by adjusting jalapeño amounts to taste.
• Let the jam sit for 24 hours before consuming to allow flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon):

• Calories: 50 kcal
• Protein: 0.1g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Sugar: 12g
• Fiber: 0.5g

Similar recipes you may also like:

• Chipotle Guacamole Recipe
• Refreshing Mango Iced Tea Recipe
• Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce Recipe
• Homemade Peanut Butter Dog Treats

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen blackberries?
A: Yes, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using.

Q: How spicy is this jam?
A: The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you use and whether you keep the seeds.

Q: Can I make this jam without pectin?
A: Yes, but the cooking time will be longer to allow natural pectin in the fruit to thicken the jam.

Q: How long does this jam last?
A: Unopened, it lasts up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within three weeks.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Reducing sugar may affect the jam’s consistency, but you can experiment with honey or sugar substitutes.

Conclusion

Blackberry Jalapeño Jam is the perfect fusion of sweet and spicy, adding a gourmet touch to any dish. With this step-by-step guide, you can create a delicious homemade jam that elevates your breakfasts, appetizers, and even main courses. Whether you love a little heat or just enjoy trying new flavors, this jam is a must-try.

Happy cooking!

Print