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Cherry Red Pepper Sweet Heat Jam

A delightful jam combining the bright flavors of cherries and red bell pepper with a touch of heat, perfect for spreading on toast or enhancing savory dishes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Condiment, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruits and Vegetables
  • 2.5 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and finely chopped Fresh cherries provide a juicier, brighter taste.
  • 1 large red bell pepper, finely diced
Sweeteners and Acids
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes Adjust to taste for heat level.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Measure and chop the cherries and dice the red bell pepper so they cook evenly.
Cooking
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, bell pepper, sugar, apple cider vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and salt. Stir to moisten everything.
  2. Place the pan over medium heat and warm until you hear the first soft sizzle and the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally.
  3. As it reaches a gentle boil, reduce heat to low and let it simmer, watching for lively bubbles and a deepening color.
  4. After 20 minutes, stir more frequently. The mixture will thicken and cling slightly to your spoon; this indicates it's near done.
  5. When the jam coats the back of a spoon and the peppers look tender and glossy, remove from heat and cool slightly. Transfer to jars and allow to cool completely before sealing.

Notes

For a smoother spread, pulse briefly with an immersion blender while still warm. For a chunkier texture, skip blending. Store sealed in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks in the fridge or freeze in small containers for up to 3 months.