Sweet and Spicy Delights: Watermelon Jam with a Jalapeño Twist

Spice Up Your Summer: The Irresistible Allure of Watermelon Jam with a Jalapeño Kick

In the realm of homemade preserves, watermelon jam stands out as a unique and delightful creation.

 The combination of juicy watermelon chunks, a hint of tangy lemon juice, and a touch of jalapeño spice creates a symphony of flavors that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. In this article, we'll delve into the art of making watermelon jam with jalapeños, sharing a recipe that has garnered both praise and controversy. Join us as we explore the process of transforming this beloved summer fruit into a delectable jam that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Recipe: Watermelon Jam with Jalapeños

Ingredients:

• - 8 cups watermelon chunks, seeds removed

• - 1/4 cup lemon juice

• - 2 boxes less or no sugar needed Sure-Jell (pink box)

• - 4 cups sugar

• - Chopped jalapeños (optional, amount to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the watermelon:

   - Cut the watermelon into chunks, removing any seeds.

   - Puree the watermelon chunks in a blender until smooth, resulting in approximately 4 cups of liquid.

2. Combine the ingredients:

   - Pour the watermelon puree into a large pot and add the lemon juice.

   - In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of sugar with both boxes of Sure-Jell, whisking until well combined.

   - Add the sugar and Sure-Jell mixture to the watermelon and lemon juice in the pot, stirring to                   incorporate.

3. Bring the mixture to a boil:

   - Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.

   - Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, add the remaining sugar and             chopped jalapeños (if desired).

4. Boil and remove from heat:

   - Allow the mixture to continue boiling vigorously for 2 minutes, ensuring it reaches a hard boil.

   - Remove the pot from the heat.

5. Prepare for canning:

   - Start heating a water bath canner while you pour the jam into prepared jars.

   - Sterilize and prepare 10 half-pint jars for canning.

6. Fill the jars and process:

   - Carefully pour the hot watermelon jam into the prepared jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.

   - Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth, ensuring a proper seal.

   - Place the hot lids and rings on the jars, tightening them securely.

   - Lower the filled jars into the boiling water bath canner, making sure the water covers the jars by at         least 1 inch.

   - Process the jars in the boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes.

7. Cool and store:

   - Carefully remove the processed jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined countertop to         cool.

   - As the jars cool, you may hear the satisfying "pop" of the lids sealing.

   - Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Watermelon jam with jalapeños offers a delightful fusion of sweetness and spiciness, showcasing the versatility of this beloved summer fruit. 

The vibrant colors and flavors of this unique preserve make it a standout addition to any pantry. Embrace the controversy and savor the deliciousness as you enjoy the fruits of your labor. Whether you choose to include the jalapeños or stick to the classic watermelon jam, this recipe is sure to impress and leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.