Jamie Oliver’s chilli jam is a sweet and spicy condiment that adds a burst of flavour to any dish. This jam combines red peppers, chillies, garlic, and ginger, creating a balanced condiment that’s perfect for sandwiches, cheese boards, grilled meats, or as dip. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this vibrant, versatile jam at home, which keeps well and brings a delicious kick to any meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Burst of Flavor: The combination of sweet and spicy flavours makes this chilli jam a unique addition to various dishes.
Versatile Use: Use it as a condiment, glaze, or dipping sauce; it pairs well with meats, cheeses, and even vegetables.

Long Shelf-Life: This jam stores well, allowing you to enjoy it over weeks.
Great for Gifting: Homemade chilli jam makes an excellent gift for family and friends who love a bit of heat.
Simple Ingredients: With a few staple ingredients, you can create this jam in no time.

What is Jamie Oliver Chilli Jam?

Jamie Oliver Chilli jam is a sweet and spicy condiment made by simmering chillies and other aromatics with sugar and vinegar until it reaches a jam-like consistency. It’s commonly used as a spread, glaze, or dipping sauce, adding a flavorful kick to dishes.

Jamie Oliver Chilli Jam Ingredients

150g fresh red chillies, roughly chopped (adjust for preferred heat)
150g red bell peppers, deseeded and chopped

1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and chopped
3 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
500g caster sugar

150ml white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 pinch of salt

Other Recipes

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Chilli Jam

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and roughly chop the red chillies and red bell peppers. If you prefer a milder jam, remove some or all of the chilli seeds. Peel and chop the ginger and garlic.

2. Blend the Vegetables

Place the chopped chillies, red bell peppers, ginger, and garlic into a food processor. Blitz until the mixture is finely chopped but not completely smooth; it should have a slightly coarse texture.

3. Cook the Jam

In a large saucepan, add the chilli mixture, caster sugar, vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar.

4. Simmer Until Thickened

Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until it has reduced and thickened to a jam-like consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The jam is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and has a slightly sticky texture.

5. Jar the Jam

Carefully spoon the hot chilli jam into sterilized jars, sealing them tightly. Let the jam cool completely before storing it.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Chilli Jam

Cheese Board: Chilli jam pairs perfectly with cheeses like cheddar, brie, or goat cheese.

Grilled Meats: Use it as a glaze or serve alongside grilled meats for a sweet-spicy contrast.
Sandwiches: Spread on sandwiches or burgers to add a flavorful kick.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve as a dipping sauce for roasted or grilled vegetables.

Asian-Inspired Dishes: Use as a dip for spring rolls, dumplings, or fried snacks.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Chilli Jam

Adjust the Spice Level: To make the jam milder, reduce the number of chillies or remove the seeds. For extra heat, add more chillies or use hotter varieties.
Use a Food Processor: Blending the vegetables ensures a smoother texture and helps the flavors blend better in the jam.

Sterilize Jars Properly: For longer shelf life, ensure your jars are properly sterilized by boiling them in water for 10 minutes before filling.
Check Consistency: To test if the jam is ready, place a spoonful on a plate and let it cool slightly. If it forms a gel-like consistency, it’s ready.
Store in a Cool Place: For longer shelf life, store the jam in a cool, dark place, or refrigerate once opened.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Chilli Jam

Garlic Chilli Jam: Increase the garlic for a stronger garlic flavor in the jam.
Mango Chilli Jam: Add diced mango to the mixture for a fruity twist.
Herbed Chilli Jam: Stir in a few fresh basil or coriander leaves for an herbal note.

Smoky Chilli Jam: Use smoked chillies or add a small amount of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Ginger-Lime Chilli Jam: Add lime zest and juice along with extra ginger for a zesty variation.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver Chilli Jam?

Room Temperature: Store unopened jars of chilli jam in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

Refrigerate After Opening: Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 weeks.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Chilli Jam?

Chilli jam is best-used cold or at room temperature, but if needed, you can warm it slightly in a microwave-safe dish for 10-15 seconds. Stir well before serving.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 60

Protein: 0.2g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 0.1g

Fiber: 0.3g
Sugar: 14g

FAQs

How do I make chilli jam less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness, remove the seeds from the chillies or use milder varieties of chillies, such as red bell peppers mixed with just a few chillies for flavour. You can also increase the amount of sugar to balance the heat.

Can I use dried chillies to make chilli jam?

Yes, you can use dried chillies if fresh ones are unavailable. Soak the dried chillies in warm water for 20-30 minutes to soften them before blending. Note that the flavour will be slightly different, and the jam may have a deeper colour.

How long does homemade chilli jam last?

Unopened jars of chilli jam can last up to 6 months if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated, and it should last for up to 4 weeks.

Can I freeze chilli jam?

Chilli jam can be frozen in small, airtight containers if you want to extend its shelf life. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using, and stir well to restore its texture.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s chilli jam is a must-have condiment that adds both heat and sweetness to any meal. With its vibrant colour and versatile flavour, this chilli jam is ideal for sandwiches, cheese platters, or as a flavorful glaze. Whether you’re making it for yourself or giving it as a gift, this simple recipe is sure to impress.

More Recipes

Jamie Oliver Peanut Butter Brownies