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River Cottage Chilli Jam Recipe

River Cottage Chilli Jam

River Cottage Chilli Jam is a sweet and spicy preserve made with fresh red chilies, garlic, sugar, and vinegar. The ingredients are cooked together until the mixture thickens into a glossy jam-like consistency.

Ingredients

Chillies

  • Fresh red chilies (250 g, roughly chopped) – Use mild or hot chilies depending on the preferred heat level.

Aromatics

  • Garlic (5 cloves) – Adds depth and savory aroma.

  • Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, chopped) – Brings gentle warmth and fragrance.

Sweetener

  • Granulated sugar (500 g) – Provides sweetness and the sticky jam texture.

Acid

  • Rice vinegar or white vinegar (250 ml) – Balances the sweetness and preserves the jam.

Optional Flavor

  • Fish sauce (1 tablespoon, optional) – Adds subtle umami depth.

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Chillies

Wash the red chilies thoroughly. Roughly chop them along with the garlic and ginger.

Step 2 – Blend the Mixture

Place the chopped chilies, garlic, ginger, and vinegar into a blender. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth.

Step 3 – Combine Ingredients in a Pan

Pour the blended mixture into a large saucepan. Add the sugar and optional fish sauce.

Step 4 – Dissolve the Sugar

Place the pan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 5 – Simmer the Jam

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6 – Thicken the Jam

As the jam cooks, it will begin to thicken and turn glossy. Continue cooking until it reaches a syrupy consistency.

Step 7 – Prepare the Jars

Sterilize glass jars by washing them with hot water and drying them in a warm oven.

Step 8 – Jar the Jam

Carefully pour the hot chilli jam into the sterilized jars and seal them tightly.

Step 9 – Cool and Store

Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool cupboard.