Slow Cooker Apple Sweet Chili Jam

Get ready to elevate your taste buds with a tantalizing blend of sweet and spicy flavors in this Slow Cooker Apple Sweet Chili Jam. Perfect for spreading on toast, glazing meats, or adding a zing to your favorite snacks, this versatile jam is a must-have in any kitchen. Made with fresh apples, jalapeños, and a hint of ginger, this homemade delight is sure to impress. Plus, with the convenience of your slow cooker, whipping up a batch has never been easier. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more!

Ingredients:

• 6 cups of peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties works best)
• 1 cup of white sugar
• 1 cup of brown sugar, lightly packed
• 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 2-3 jalapeños, seeds removed and minced (depending on your heat preference)
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra kick)
• 1 pouch (3 oz) of liquid pectin

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped apples, white sugar, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced jalapeños, diced red bell pepper, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes.
2. Stir the ingredients until well combined.
3. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the mixture has thickened.
4. Once the apples are cooked down, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the slow cooker.
5. Stir in the liquid pectin and continue cooking on low heat for an additional 30 minutes to allow the jam to thicken further.
6. Taste the jam and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more sugar or spice according to your preference.
7. Once the jam reaches your desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the slow cooker and let it cool completely.
8. Transfer the cooled jam to sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4 inch headspace, and seal tightly with lids.
9. Store the jars of jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or process them in a water bath canner for long-term storage.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For a smoother jam, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before transferring it to jars.
• Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños, or including the seeds for an extra kick.
• Experiment with different varieties of apples for unique flavor profiles. Granny Smith apples add tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add sweetness.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip the pureeing step and leave the jam with small apple pieces.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

• To make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb, you can substitute the sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
• Reduce the amount of sweetener used to suit your taste preferences, as keto-friendly sweeteners are often sweeter than sugar.
• Skip the pectin or use a low-carb alternative to achieve the desired thickness without adding extra carbs.

With its irresistible combination of sweet apples, spicy jalapeños, and aromatic spices, this Slow Cooker Apple Sweet Chili Jam is sure to become a new favorite in your pantry. Whether you’re slathering it on sandwiches, pairing it with cheese, or gifting it to friends and family, this homemade jam adds a touch of warmth and flavor to any dish. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to delight your senses with this deliciously addictive jam that’s perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use different types of peppers? Yes, you can customize the heat level and flavor of the jam by using different types of peppers such as serrano peppers, poblano peppers, or even habaneros for an extra spicy kick.
2. How long does this jam last? When properly stored in sterilized jars and sealed tightly, this jam can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If processed in a water bath canner, it can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place.
3. Can I freeze this jam? Yes, you can freeze this jam in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. Just be sure to leave some room for expansion in the containers to prevent them from bursting.
4. What can I serve this jam with? This jam pairs well with a variety of dishes, including cheese platters, grilled meats, sandwiches, and crackers. It can also be used as a glaze for poultry or pork dishes.
5. Can I adjust the sweetness level? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or sweetener used in the recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can also add more or less honey to balance the sweetness with the heat.
6. Can I make this jam on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this jam on the stovetop by combining all the ingredients in a large pot and cooking over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the mixture has thickened.
7. Can I omit the pectin? While pectin helps to thicken the jam and give it a jelly-like consistency, you can omit it if you prefer a looser, more sauce-like consistency. Just be aware that the jam may not set as firmly without the pectin.
8. Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen apples in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before chopping and adding them to the slow cooker.
9. Can I double or halve the recipe? Yes, you can easily adjust the recipe to make more or less jam by doubling or halving the ingredients accordingly. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
10. Can I add other spices to the jam? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavor of the jam by adding spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or allspice for extra warmth and depth of flavor.