Sweet Chilli Jam
My sweet chilli jam is a versatile condiment that combines the sweetness of red capsicums, tomatoes, and sugar, with the heat of chillies. The result is a well-balanced and flavourful jam that can be used as a spread, dip, or glaze. Its vibrant taste profile adds a delightful kick to a variety of dishes, from sandwiches and burgers to grilled meats and appetizers. This is a staple in my house and often made as a gift for friends and family.
How to Use Sweet Chilli Jam
Here are some creative and tasty ways to use sweet chili jam:
- Spread on Toast or Bagels: Use sweet chili jam as a flavourful alternative to traditional jams or spreads on your morning toast or bagel.
- Dip for Appetizers: Serve sweet chili jam as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, chicken wings, or other appetizers. It adds a sweet and spicy kick to your favorite finger foods.
- Glaze for Grilled Meats: Brush sweet chili jam onto grilled chicken, pork, or shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking. The heat will caramelize the jam, creating a delicious glaze.
- Sandwich or Wrap Spread: Use sweet chili jam as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or paninis. It pairs well with a variety of proteins, cheeses, and veggies.
- Stir-Fry Sauce: Add sweet chili jam to stir-fry dishes for a burst of flavour. It works well with vegetables, tofu, chicken, or prawns. Simply stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Marinade for Meat: Mix sweet chili jam with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to create a flavourful marinade for meats. Let the meat soak in the marinade before grilling or baking.
- Condiment for Cheese and Crackers: Serve sweet chili jam alongside a cheese platter for a unique and spicy twist. It complements both mild and sharp cheeses.
- Salad Dressing: Create a quick and tasty salad dressing by mixing sweet chili jam with olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle it over salads for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Pizza Topping: Use sweet chili jam as a pizza sauce or drizzle it over slices for a unique and flavourful twist on traditional pizza.
- Garnish for Cream Cheese: Mix sweet chili jam with cream cheese to create a delicious and spicy spread for crackers or bagels.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with sweet chili jam in your favourite recipes. Its versatility makes it a great addition to both savoury and sweet dishes. I even added a heaped tablespoon into my Alfreddo sauce tonight. It was a delicious addition!
Sterilising Jars
My go to method to sterilise in the oven.
- Clean the Jars: Wash the jars, lids, and any metal or rubber bands in hot, soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 135°C. This temperature is sufficient to sterilize the jars without risking damage to the glass.
- Place Jars on a Baking Sheet: Arrange the jars, lids, and metal bands on a clean baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching each other to allow hot air to circulate freely. For rubber rings, boil them in water for about 5 minutes to sterilise them.
- Bake in the Oven: Put the baking sheet with the jars in the preheated oven. Let them bake for at least 20 minutes to ensure proper sterilization.
- Remove Carefully: Using oven mitts or tongs, carefully remove the hot jars from the oven. Be cautious to avoid burns.
- Cool and Assemble: Allow the jars to cool a little before filling them with the jam. Assemble the lids and bands while the jars are still warm. This helps create a better seal.
Remember to avoid sudden temperature changes, such as placing hot jars on a cold surface, as this can lead to breakage. Additionally, always follow the specific instructions provided by the jar manufacturer for safe use in the oven.
Storing
Sweet chilli jam will last up to 12 months if sealed properly, and stored in a cool dark place.
Once you’ve opened it, store in the fridge and consume within 3-4 months. It is important to avoid cross contamination. Use a clean, dry spoon or utensil each time you scoop out sweet chili jam. This helps prevent the introduction of contaminants that could lead to spoilage.
Sweet Chilli Jam
Equipment
- TM5 or TM6
- Small preserving jar
Ingredients
- 2 tomatoes quartered, seeds removed
- 2 red capsicums seeds removed but into quarters
- 100 grams white wine vinegar
- 50 grams water
- 180 grams raw sugar
- 1-3 tsp dried chilli flakes
Instructions
- Add tomatoes and capsicums into Thermomix bowl (they should weigh approx. 500g). Chop 5 secs/speed 4. Scrap down sides of bowl and check that they are chopped nice and small. If not chop again 2 secs/speed 4.
- Add remaining ingredients. Place simmering basket on lid and cook 35 mins/varoma temp/reverse/spoon speed. Check thickness of jam. it will not thicken much as it cools so cook for a further 5 mins/varoma/reverse/spoon speed if you want it thicker. Once happy place the hot jam into a warm sterilised jar if storing, or a clean jar if its going to be eaten straight away.