Slow Cooker Rhubarb Sweet Chili Jam: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Condiment
There’s nothing quite like the sweet tanginess of homemade jam, and when you add a touch of heat and complexity, you get something truly special. This Slow Cooker Rhubarb Sweet Chili Jam recipe combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of honey and sugar, balanced by the subtle heat of chili and the depth of garlic. It’s a versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with everything from cheese and crackers to grilled meats and sandwiches. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delightful jam!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of rhubarb, chopped
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
Instructions:
- Prep the Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping the rhubarb into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the red chili, removing the seeds if you prefer a milder jam. Zest the lemon and squeeze out its juice.
- Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: In the bowl of your slow cooker, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, honey, minced garlic, chopped chili, salt, cider vinegar, water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Cook on Low Heat: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the mixture on low heat for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally. The rhubarb should break down and become soft, resulting in a thick, jam-like consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the jam and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more sugar or honey for sweetness, more chili for heat, or more salt to enhance the flavors. Keep in mind that the flavors will continue to develop as the jam cools.
- Sterilize Jars: While the jam is cooking, sterilize your glass jars and lids by washing them in hot, soapy water and then placing them in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Allow the jars to air dry completely before filling them with jam.
- Jar the Jam: Once the jam has reached your desired consistency and flavor, carefully ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills or residue.
- Seal the Jars: Place the lids on the jars and tighten them securely. You can further seal the jars by processing them in a hot water bath for 10-15 minutes, or simply store them in the refrigerator for immediate use.
- Store and Enjoy: Allow the jars of jam to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place. The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks or in the freezer for longer-term storage.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a smoother jam, you can puree the cooked rhubarb mixture using an immersion blender before jarring it.
- If you prefer a sweeter jam, you can adjust the amount of sugar and honey to suit your taste preferences.
- Feel free to customize the level of heat in the jam by adding more or less chili according to your preference.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this rhubarb jam, you can substitute the sugar and honey with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Be sure to adjust the sweetness to taste.
- Alternatively, you can omit the sweetener altogether and let the natural tartness of the rhubarb shine through for a low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb if fresh rhubarb is not available. Simply thaw the rhubarb before chopping it and follow the recipe as directed.
2. How long will the rhubarb sweet chili jam last?
When stored properly in sterilized jars in the refrigerator, this rhubarb sweet chili jam can last for several weeks to a few months. Be sure to consume it within a reasonable time frame and check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
3. Can I adjust the level of sweetness and heat in the jam?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, honey, and chili according to your taste preferences. Start with smaller amounts and add more as needed to achieve the desired flavor profile.
Homemade Slow Cooker Rhubarb Sweet Chili Jam is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that will elevate your favorite dishes. Whether spread on toast, served alongside cheese and crackers, or used as a glaze for meats, this versatile jam is sure to impress. Plus, with the convenience of the slow cooker, you can easily whip up a batch to enjoy or gift to friends and family. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of this easy-to-make jam!
