This recipe was inspired by my aunt’s garden, where wild blackberries grew near a patch of jalapeños. She’d simmer them into a jam that danced between sweet and spicy. One spoonful brings back memories of porch breakfasts and summer sunshine. Try it on toast, with cheese, or as a glaze!
4 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
2 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
1 tbsp lemon juice
3 cups sugar
1 pouch (3 oz) liquid pectin
In a large saucepan, combine blackberries, jalapeños, and lemon juice.
Bring to a boil and mash the berries gently with a spoon.
Add sugar, stir well, and bring mixture to a rolling boil.
Stir in pectin and boil for 1–2 minutes more, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat, skim foam if needed.
Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, seal, and process in a water bath for 10 minutes, or refrigerate if using immediately.
For smoother jam, strain out the seeds after step 2.
Want it spicier? Leave in the jalapeño seeds or add a third pepper.
It pairs beautifully with goat cheese, grilled meats, or over vanilla ice cream!