Apricot Jalapeno Preserves Recipe for Sweet and Spicy Jams

Apricot Jalapeno Preserves are a delightful blend of sweet and spicy that will elevate any dish, from toast and cheese boards to grilled meats and sandwiches. Combining the luscious sweetness of ripe apricots with the fiery kick of jalapenos, this preserve is an irresistible condiment that balances vibrant flavors with a smooth, jammy texture.

Making your own preserves at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to control the ingredients and spice level to match your personal taste.

This recipe is perfect for home cooks craving a unique twist on traditional preserves. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or simply want to enjoy a gourmet treat in your everyday meals, these apricot jalapeno preserves will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Plus, the canning process ensures your preserves stay fresh and delicious for months to come.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this apricot jalapeno preserves recipe. First, it perfectly marries the natural sweetness of apricots with the bold heat of jalapenos, creating a complex flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.

It’s incredibly versatile — use it as a glaze for meats, a topping for crackers with cheese, or simply spread it on your morning toast. The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned preservers alike.

Additionally, making your own preserves allows you to skip preservatives and additives often found in store-bought versions. This way, you get a fresh, wholesome product that tastes better and is healthier.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 packet fruit pectin (about 1.75 oz)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or preserving pan
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Food processor or blender (optional, for smoother texture)
• Glass jars with lids (sterilized for canning)
• Jar funnel (optional, for easy filling)
• Jar lifter or tongs
• Large pot for water bath canning
• Timer or clock

Instructions

1. Prepare the apricots and jalapenos. Wash the apricots, remove the pits, and chop them into small pieces. Carefully seed and finely chop the jalapeno peppers to control the heat level.
2. Combine fruit and jalapenos in the saucepan. Place apricots, jalapenos, and lemon juice in a large saucepan. Stir gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
3. Add sugar and fruit pectin. Sprinkle the fruit pectin over the fruit mixture, then add the sugar and salt. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the sugar and pectin to begin dissolving.
4. Cook the preserves. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rapid boil, stirring constantly. Boil hard for 1 minute, making sure the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens.
5. Test the consistency. To check if the preserves have set, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. If it gels and wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it’s ready. If not, boil for another minute and test again.
6. Remove from heat and skim foam. Skim off any foam from the surface using a spoon to give your preserves a clear, glossy finish.
7. Fill sterilized jars. Using a jar funnel, carefully ladle the hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
8. Seal and process jars. Wipe the rims clean, seal with sterilized lids, and process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper preservation.
9. Cool and store. Remove jars from the water bath and let them cool on a towel or rack undisturbed for 24 hours. Check seals and store in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips & Variations

“Adjust the jalapeno quantity according to your spice preference. For milder preserves, reduce the peppers or remove all seeds.

For extra heat, add a small pinch of cayenne pepper or an extra jalapeno.”

For a smoother preserve, purée the apricot and jalapeno mixture before cooking. You can also add a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for a citrusy or spicy twist.

If you prefer a chunkier texture, chop the fruit and peppers coarsely and avoid blending. For a vegan-friendly alternative, ensure your pectin is plant-based, as some commercial pectins contain animal-derived additives.

Want to experiment further? Try substituting apricots with peaches or nectarines, or add a few chopped fresh herbs like mint or basil for a unique flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Apricot Jalapeno Preserves are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes. Spread them on warm toast or bagels for a sweet and spicy breakfast treat.

Pair with cream cheese or goat cheese on crackers for an elegant appetizer.

They also work beautifully as a glaze for grilled chicken, pork, or tofu, adding a burst of flavor that’s both fruity and fiery. Stir a spoonful into salad dressings or marinades for an unexpected twist.

For a quick snack, try them on a veg grilled sandwich or atop a vegan cheese board.

Looking for more unique preserves and condiments? Check out our other recipes like the Best Vegan Kale Dip Recipe or the Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian for exciting homemade flavors.

Conclusion

Making apricot jalapeno preserves at home is a delightful culinary adventure that yields a deliciously sweet and spicy condiment perfect for many uses. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet preserve that enhances your meals and snacks with vibrant flavor.

This recipe invites creativity and personalization, allowing you to adjust the heat and sweetness to your liking. Plus, the satisfaction of preserving your own fruit and enjoying it throughout the year is truly rewarding.

Don’t hesitate to explore this recipe and experiment with variations to discover your favorite version.

For more exciting and wholesome recipes that complement your homemade preserves, be sure to explore our collection like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping and Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Happy preserving!

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