James Martin Chilli Jam

This James Martin Chilli Jam recipe is a glossy, punchy, and flavorful condiment that adds a sweet yet fiery kick to almost anything.

Whether you’re serving it with roasted meats, spooning it onto cheese boards, or adding it to sandwiches, this jam is a versatile addition to your kitchen. Made in under 40 minutes, it’s an ideal balance of heat, sweetness, and acidity with a rich, sticky texture.

What is James Martin Chilli Jam?

James Martin’s version of chilli jam blends red chillies, red peppers, garlic, vinegar, and sugar into a smooth, sticky preserve. It’s simmered down until glossy and thick, creating a vibrant jar of homemade jam that offers both heat and sweetness. This jam stands out for its simplicity and restaurant-quality results at home.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Mango Chicken
• Mary Berry Amalfi Chicken Orzo
• River Cottage Chilli Jam
• James Martin Strawberry Jam

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Bold flavor profile – Sweet, spicy, and tangy in every bite
• Simple ingredients – Pantry staples with fresh produce
• Ideal for batch-making – Stores well and is perfect for gifting
• Quick to prepare – Ready in under 40 minutes
• Great for all diets – Naturally vegan and gluten-free
• Pairs with almost anything – From cheese to grilled meats

Ingredients Needed to Make James Martin Chilli Jam

• 8 red chillies – Deseeded if you want less heat
• 2 large red bell peppers – Chopped, for bulk and sweetness
• 4 garlic cloves – Adds depth of flavor
• 500g caster sugar – For classic jam consistency
• 250ml red wine vinegar – Sharpness to balance the sweetness
• Juice of 1 lemon – Optional, enhances flavor and helps with setting
• Pinch of salt – To round out the taste

Equipment Needed

• Blender or food processor
• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Jam thermometer (optional)
• Sterilized jars with lids
• Funnel and ladle

Instructions to Make James Martin Chilli Jam

Step 1: Prepare the chilli blend

• Add red chillies, bell peppers, and garlic to a blender. Blitz into a smooth purée.

Step 2: Transfer to a saucepan

• Pour the purée into a large pan. Add the sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, and salt.

Step 3: Heat and dissolve

• Warm over low heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.

Step 4: Simmer to thicken

• Turn up the heat slightly and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 5: Check for the setting point

• Use a jam thermometer (105°C/221°F) or the cold plate method. The jam should wrinkle slightly when pushed.

Step 6: Jar the jam

• Carefully spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars using a funnel. Seal tightly while hot.

Step 7: Cool and store

• Allow to cool completely before storing in a cool, dry place. Refrigerate once opened.

What Goes Well With James Martin Chilli Jam

• Mature cheddar cheese – Cuts through the heat with creamy sharpness
• Grilled chicken or lamb – Makes an excellent glaze or dip
• Toasted sandwiches or paninis – Adds a tangy-spicy layer
• Charcuterie boards – A colorful and flavorful addition
• Burgers or sausages – A bold alternative to ketchup
• Spring rolls or samosas – Works as a dipping sauce
• Stir-fried noodles – Toss in a spoonful for heat and sweetness

Expert Tips for Making the Best James Martin Chilli Jam

• Don’t skip the vinegar – It’s essential for both flavor and preservation
• Use a jam thermometer if possible – It ensures perfect consistency
• Deseed chillies for a milder jam – You control the heat level
• Keep an eye on the simmer – It can burn quickly as it thickens
• Blend until smooth – A fine purée ensures the best texture
• Let it mature – The flavor deepens after a few days
• Label the jars – Include the date for storage tracking

Easy Variations of James Martin Chilli Jam

• Add smoked paprika – For a smoky heat twist
• Include ginger – Brings warming depth
• Use honey instead of sugar – For a floral note
• Mix in chopped tomatoes – For more body and balance
• Add soy sauce – Boosts umami and depth
• Incorporate apple – Sweetens and thickens naturally

Best Practices to Store James Martin Chilli Jam

• Use sterilized jars – Prevents spoilage and extends shelf life
• Keep sealed jars in a cool, dark place – Ideal storage conditions
• Refrigerate after opening – Lasts up to 3 weeks
• Label with date of preparation – For tracking freshness
• Avoid double-dipping – Use clean spoons to maintain shelf life

Best Practices to Reheat or Use James Martin Chilli Jam

• Warm in a saucepan gently – For use as a glaze
• Microwave briefly – To loosen for spreading or drizzling
• Serve cold straight from the fridge – As a dip or spread
• Mix into stir-fries – For added heat and sweetness
• Drizzle over pizza or toasties – For a spicy upgrade

How Can I Make James Martin’s Chilli Jam Healthier?

• Reduce sugar slightly – Adjust to your taste while watching the consistency
• Use natural sweeteners like honey or agave – Adds nutrients
• Include more bell peppers – Boosts fiber and reduces heat
• Add turmeric or ginger – For added antioxidants
• Use apple cider vinegar – Offers gut health benefits

Nutritional Value (per tablespoon)

• Calories: 48 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugars: 11g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Protein: 0.1g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Fiber: 0.2g

FAQs

Can I reduce the sugar in James Martin’s chilli jam?

Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar, but be cautious—sugar is essential for the jam’s thick consistency and shelf stability. Reducing it too much may result in a runny texture or shorter shelf life.

Why is my chilli jam not setting properly?

If your jam isn’t setting, it likely didn’t reach the setting temperature of 105°C (221°F). Use a sugar thermometer or the cold plate test to ensure it’s ready before jarring.

Can I blend the chilli mixture after cooking?

It’s best to blend before cooking to achieve a smooth texture. Blending hot jam can be dangerous and may alter the final consistency.

How long should I boil chilli jam for?

Simmer the jam for 25–30 minutes after the sugar has dissolved, stirring often. The mixture should thicken and become glossy before you test for setting.

Final Words

This James Martin Chilli Jam is your go-to condiment for adding a touch of sweet fire to any dish. It’s a kitchen staple that’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to elevate every bite. Once you make your own batch, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

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