Dive into a world of sweet and spicy delight with our Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam recipe. This tantalizing jam combines the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple with the bold kick of chili peppers, creating a flavor explosion that will elevate any dish. Whether you spread it on toast, pair it with cheese and crackers, or use it as a glaze for meats and seafood, this versatile jam is sure to add a burst of sunshine to your table. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can effortlessly whip up a batch of this irresistible jam with minimal effort. Get ready to experience a taste of paradise with our Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely diced
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 Thai red chilies, seeded and minced (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 (1.75 oz) package fruit pectin
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely dice the fresh pineapple, mince the garlic cloves, chop the red bell pepper, seed and mince the Thai red chilies, and grate the fresh ginger.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In the bowl of a slow cooker, combine the diced pineapple, sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, minced Thai red chilies, grated ginger, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the mixture on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the pineapple is soft and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Add Fruit Pectin: Once the pineapple mixture has cooked down, stir in the package of fruit pectin until fully dissolved. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to allow the jam to thicken further.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the jam until smooth. Alternatively, leave it chunky for a more rustic texture.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars for storage. Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or process them in a water bath canner for long-term storage.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Adjusting Spice Level: Customize the heat level of the jam by adjusting the amount of Thai red chilies used. For a milder jam, reduce the amount of chilies or omit them altogether.
- Texture Variation: Experiment with different textures by adjusting the blending time. For a chunkier jam, blend it for a shorter period, leaving chunks of pineapple and peppers intact. For a smoother jam, blend it until completely smooth.
- Sweetness Level: Taste the jam as it cooks and adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter jam, add more sugar. Conversely, if you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the amount of sugar used.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Be sure to adjust the amount of sweetener to taste, as keto-friendly sweeteners can vary in sweetness.
- Reduce the amount of pineapple used in the recipe to lower the carbohydrate content. You can also add more red bell pepper and omit the Thai red chilies for a milder flavor profile.
Indulge in the tropical flavors of our Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam – a versatile condiment that adds a burst of sweetness and heat to any dish. Whether you spread it on toast for a sweet and spicy breakfast, glaze meats and seafood for a flavor-packed dinner, or pair it with cheese and crackers for a gourmet appetizer, this irresistible jam is sure to delight your taste buds. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can effortlessly whip up a batch of this delicious jam to enjoy at home or give as a thoughtful homemade gift. So grab your ingredients and get ready to savor the taste of paradise with our Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can substitute canned pineapple for fresh pineapple in this recipe. Be sure to drain the canned pineapple before adding it to the slow cooker to prevent excess liquid in the jam.
- How long does this jam last in the refrigerator?
- Stored in an airtight container, Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
- Can I use different types of chili peppers?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of chili peppers to customize the heat level and flavor of the jam. Jalapeños, serranos, or habaneros can all be used in place of Thai red chilies.
- What can I serve this jam with?
- Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, cheese platters, sandwiches, and even stir-fries. Get creative and explore different ways to enjoy this flavorful condiment.
- Can I double or triple this recipe?
- Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch of jam. Simply adjust the quantities accordingly and cook it in a larger slow cooker or pot.
- Can I can this jam for long-term storage?
- Yes, you can process the jam in a water bath canner for long-term storage. Follow standard canning procedures and guidelines to ensure safe preservation.
- Is this jam suitable for gift giving?
- Absolutely! Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift for friends and family. Package it in decorative jars with personalized labels for a special touch.
- Can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?
- Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the jam by adding more or less sugar to taste. Keep in mind that the sweetness will intensify as the jam cooks down, so it’s best to start with less sugar and add more if needed.
- Can I use this jam as a glaze for meats?
- Yes, Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam makes an excellent glaze for grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or salmon. Simply brush the jam onto the meat during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and spicy finish.
- Can I freeze this jam for later use?
- Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Pineapple Sweet Chili Jam for later use. Allow the jam to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.