Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam

This Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam is a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors, making it a versatile addition to any dish. It pairs beautifully with cheese, crackers, or as a glaze for meats, adding a bold twist to your meals.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh cranberries
• 2-3 hot peppers (jalapeños or serrano), finely chopped (remove seeds for milder heat)
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cups sugar
• 1 pouch (3 oz) liquid pectin

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cranberries and Peppers:

• Rinse the cranberries thoroughly.
• Finely chop the hot peppers, removing seeds if you prefer a milder jam. Set both aside.

2. Cook the Mixture:

• In a large pot, combine the cranberries, chopped hot peppers, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

3. Add the Sugar:

• Once boiling, gradually add the sugar, stirring constantly to ensure it dissolves completely.
• Continue cooking for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the cranberries to burst and the mixture to thicken.

4. Add the Pectin:

• Stir in the liquid pectin and bring the mixture back to a boil.
• Boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

5. Jar the Jam:

• Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch of headspace.
• Wipe the rims clean and seal the jars with sterilized lids and rings.

6. Process the Jars:

• Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
• Carefully remove the jars and place them on a towel to cool, undisturbed, until the lids seal.

This delicious jam makes a fantastic gift or an ideal treat for your pantry, ready to add a zesty kick to any occasion.