Welcome to the delightful world of homemade preserves, where classic flavors meet exciting twists. This **Homemade Strawberry Chipotle Jam Recipe** offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, transforming ordinary toast into an extraordinary culinary experience. Whether you prefer a subtle hint of warmth or a bold, smoky kick, this versatile jam can be easily tailored to your taste. If you’re new to the intriguing combination of fruit and spice, prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor that chipotle chiles bring to sweet, juicy strawberries.
Making jam at home is a rewarding process, especially when you use fresh, seasonal ingredients. This Strawberry Chipotle Jam isn’t just a delicious spread; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty, captured in a jar to enjoy all year long. Imagine the joy of slathering this vibrant, spicy-sweet jam on a warm scone during a chilly winter morning, or adding a dollop to vanilla ice cream for a unique dessert experience. It’s also an exceptional choice for elevating cheese boards, glazing roasted meats, or even stirring into cocktails for an unexpected twist.
The Allure of Sweet and Spicy: Why This Jam Stands Out
Traditional strawberry jam is a beloved classic, but this recipe takes it to the next level with the smoky, spicy addition of chipotle peppers. Chipotle chiles are smoked and dried jalapeños, and when packed in adobo sauce, they offer a complex flavor profile that is both earthy and subtly hot. This unique blend creates a jam that is incredibly versatile and captivating to the palate. The sweetness of ripe strawberries perfectly complements the heat of the chipotles, resulting in a jam that is equally at home on breakfast pastries as it is paired with savory dishes.
Beyond its incredible flavor, this jam is an excellent choice for those who enjoy canning and freezing. Preserving summer’s freshest produce allows you to savor the taste of sunshine long after the season ends. There’s something truly special about opening a jar of homemade jam when the snow is falling outside, reminding you of warmer days and the delicious fruits of your labor. It’s a wonderful way to bring a burst of flavor to your table, even when fresh berries are out of season.
Essential Ingredients for Your Strawberry Chipotle Jam
Crafting the perfect Strawberry Chipotle Jam requires just a few key ingredients. The quality of each component plays a crucial role in the final flavor and texture of your preserve.
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of our show! Opt for ripe, firm, and vibrant red strawberries. Summer is the ideal time to find the sweetest, most flavorful berries. Washing and hulling them properly will ensure a clean, fresh taste.
- Chipotle Chiles in Adobo Sauce: These provide the distinctive smoky heat. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level. For a milder jam, use fewer chiles or remove some of the seeds. The adobo sauce itself adds a rich, savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Essential for both sweetness and preservation. Sugar also helps pectin activate, contributing to the jam’s texture.
- Lemon Juice: A critical ingredient! Lemon juice adds a bright, tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the chipotles. More importantly, its acidity is vital for activating the pectin, ensuring your jam sets properly. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always recommended for the best flavor.
- Real Fruit Powdered Pectin: Pectin is a natural gelling agent found in fruits. Adding powdered pectin ensures your jam achieves a consistent, desirable set. Make sure to use a high-quality powdered pectin specifically designed for making jam.
More Delicious Strawberry Recipes to Explore
If you love the versatility of strawberries as much as we do, you’ll be thrilled to discover more ways to incorporate them into your cooking. From refreshing beverages to decadent desserts, strawberries are a culinary delight.
- Crockpot Strawberry Jam
- Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots
- Easy Strawberry Shortcake
- Strawberry Champagne Cocktail
- Strawberry Bruschetta
We are passionate about creating strawberry recipes that everyone can enjoy, showcasing the incredible range of this popular berry. For more culinary inspiration, don’t forget to check out our copycat recipes, dessert recipes, and our CrockPot Recipes.
Stay connected with us for all our latest recipe posts and culinary adventures. Follow Tammilee Tips on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Strawberry Chipotle Jam Recipe
How to make Sweet and Spicy Strawberry Chipotle Jam
Print Recipe
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 6 cups strawberries, washed and cut in half
- ½ can Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
- 3 cups White Sugar
- ¼ cup Lemon Juice
- 5 Tablespoons pectin
Instructions
- In a food processor or blender, pulse the chilis and berries.
- Keep an eye on it to achieve your desired consistency – smooth or chunky. It chops very fast!
- Pour the strawberry mixture, adding the lemon juice and pectin, into a large pot.
- Cook over medium to high heat, stirring constantly, and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add sugar, continue to stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Bring the mix to a rolling boil again.
- Let it boil for 1 minute, stirring non-stop.
- Remove from heat.
- Skim any foam from the surface if needed.
Handling the Jars for Canning
- Prepare your canning setup: Fill a large pot (with a canning rack or trivet) ¾ full with water. Ensure the water level will cover the tops of your jars by at least an inch once they are submerged.
- Sterilize jars and lids: Wash your canning jars and lids thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Rinse them well. Place the empty jars in the large pot of water and the lids (including bands) in a separate smaller pot of water.
- Boil for sterilization: Bring both pots of water to a boil and let them simmer while you prepare the jam. This ensures your jars are sterilized and hot when the jam is ready, preventing thermal shock.
- Fill the jars: Once the jam is ready, carefully remove one hot jar from the large pot using canning tongs. Dry the outside with a clean towel. Use a canning funnel to carefully fill the jar with the hot strawberry chipotle jam.
- Ensure proper headspace: Leave at least 1 inch of headspace from the top rim of the jar. This space is crucial for proper sealing and to allow for jam expansion during processing.
- Remove air bubbles: Insert a non-metallic bubble remover tool or a clean chopstick along the inside edge of the jar, gently moving it around to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Clean jar rims: Wipe the jar rims thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove any jam residue. A clean rim is essential for a proper seal.
- Place lids: Using a magnetic lid lifter (or tongs), carefully retrieve a hot lid from the smaller pot and center it on the jar.
- Secure bands: Place a screw band over the lid and tighten it to “finger-tight.” This means tightening until you feel resistance, then giving it just a quarter-turn more. Do not overtighten.
- Repeat for all jars: Continue this process until all your jars are filled and sealed.
- Process the jars: Carefully place each filled jar back into the hot water bath in the large pot using a jar lifter. Ensure the jars are completely submerged under water by at least 1 inch. Bring the water back to a full rolling boil.
- Process time: For most strawberry jams, a processing time of 10 minutes at a rolling boil is sufficient for safe water bath canning (adjust for altitude if necessary).
- Cool down: Turn off the heat and let the jars stand in the hot water for another 5-10 minutes. This helps prevent siphoning and helps ensure a good seal.
- Final cooling: Remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a wire rack or a cutting board, spaced apart, to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. You will hear popping sounds as the lids seal.
- Check seals and store: After cooling, check the seals by pressing on the center of each lid. If it doesn’t flex, it’s sealed. Remove the screw bands for storage. Label your jars with the jam type and canning date. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Unsealed jars should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 weeks.
Kitchen Tools
- Blender or Food Processor
- Large Pot (for cooking jam)
- Canning Pot with Rack (for water bath canning)
- Canning Jars and Lids
- Canning Funnel
- Jar Lifter
- Non-metallic Bubble Remover
- Magnetic Lid Lifter
Tips for the Best Strawberry Chipotle Jam
To ensure your homemade jam is absolutely perfect every time, consider these additional tips:
- Choose Your Berries Wisely: The flavor of your jam heavily relies on the quality of your strawberries. Seek out berries that are deeply red, fragrant, and sweet. Avoid any with white patches or mold.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you’re hesitant about the heat, start with fewer chipotle peppers and a smaller amount of adobo sauce. You can always add more to taste during the pulsing stage. For a truly mild jam, you can omit the chipotles entirely, creating a classic strawberry jam with a unique smoky undertone from the adobo sauce.
- Pectin Power: Follow the pectin package instructions carefully. Different brands or types of pectin (like low-sugar pectin) may have slightly different requirements for sugar and cooking times. Don’t skip the lemon juice, as it’s crucial for pectin activation.
- The Rolling Boil: A “rolling boil” is when the mixture continues to boil vigorously even when stirred. This intense heat is necessary to activate the pectin and evaporate excess water, allowing the jam to set.
- Testing for Set: To check if your jam is set, place a small plate in the freezer before you start cooking. When you think the jam is ready, spoon a small amount onto the cold plate, wait 30 seconds, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready. If not, continue boiling for another minute or two and retest.
- Safety First with Canning: Always use sterilized jars and lids. Ensure proper headspace and processing times according to reputable canning guidelines (e.g., from your local extension office or the National Center for Home Food Preservation) to ensure safety and prevent spoilage.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Strawberry Chipotle Jam
The beauty of Strawberry Chipotle Jam lies in its incredible versatility. Don’t limit it to just breakfast toast! Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary adventures:
- Elevate Breakfast: Spread it generously on croissants, bagels, pancakes, waffles, or crepes. Stir it into oatmeal or yogurt for a flavorful start to your day.
- Savory Pairings: This jam is exceptional with cheese. Serve it on a charcuterie board with sharp cheddar, goat cheese, or brie. It makes a fantastic glaze for grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, or salmon. Use it as a condiment for gourmet burgers or hot dogs.
- Dessert Dynamo: Swirl it into cheesecake batter, use it as a topping for vanilla ice cream or panna cotta, or layer it in parfaits. It also makes a wonderful filling for tarts or thumbprint cookies.
- Cocktail Enhancer: A spoonful can add a unique sweet and spicy dimension to cocktails like margaritas, daiquiris, or even a spicy gin fizz.
- Homemade Gifts: Jarred jam makes for thoughtful and impressive homemade gifts for holidays, birthdays, or as a host/hostess present. Decorate the jars with custom labels or ribbons.
This Strawberry Chipotle Jam recipe is more than just a preserve; it’s an invitation to explore new flavors and embrace the art of homemade goodness. Enjoy the process of creating this unique and delicious jam, and savor every sweet, spicy, and smoky bite!
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Recipe originally shared on June 28, 2015. Updated December 2020.