Name: Chilli Plum Jam Recipe
Ingredients: 2 kg plums (stoned & quartered); 2 kg granualted sugar; 2 chillis (deseeded & finely chopped (Optional) ); 300 ml water

Here, I show you how to make 8 jars of Chilli Plum Jam with 2kg plums.

Homemade Homegrown Plum & Chilli Jam Recipe

Since moving in to our first home, we've been blessed with a plum tree that has helped me out at Christmas time.

Although what I didn't realise is that one year in a while, it has a resting period. And just like last year too, I never saw any fruit. Sadly we also had to chop down a 2nd tree to install a fence.

But 6kg of plums this year has kept me very busy. Who else doesn't like waste?

6kg of plums, some of which were used for chilli plum jam

Making Plum Liqueur for Christmas Hampers

It's in an awkward spot at the bottom of the garden too. Partly leaning over the neighbour's fence, so I have now offered for them to help themselves.

So far, I've made a James Martin plum steamed pudding in my Tefal Cook4Me Connect. Then I made this delicious Plum & Cookie Crumble using my new Denby Halo baking dish. And now Plum & Chilli Jam for Christmas gifts.

I always make hampers each year. That way, I can stay at home, save money and not get squashed in queues for last minute presents. Does that tick enough boxes for you?

DO I NEED TO USE CHILLI FOR CHILLI PLUM JAM?

And if chilli isn't your thing, it is completely optional. But my top tips would be to add a little bit at a time in the simmering process. And luckily Marigold sent me a pack of 40 disposable gloves that were perfect for the job.

I used to be your sort of wing-it girl and getting spicy eye was hit and miss. But let me tell you, it's not worth the hassle, so try to do yourself a favour!

DO I NEED TO STERILIZE JARS?

It's important to sterilize jars in the oven for chilli plum jam. In fact, any jam for that matter.

Even if you're recycling or buying new packs from Lakeland, you need to sterilize them. Note, however, buying new jars can be a pretty dear do when you making them to give as gifts.

I find it sufficient enough to recycle them and then add some fancy Tala tops. But pretty scraps of fabric and string are equally as pretty.

HOW DO I STERILIZE JARS?

Some people say putting jars in the dishwasher is hot enough to kill germs. Others say dishwashers can carry bacteria inside and isn't suitable.

I've cleaned them in the dishwasher and I think it worked. However, as I give them as gifts, I never have them long enough to see.

So, here's my regular method where I boil the lids in clean water and bake the clean jars in the oven. Although, it's best to sterilize more than you think you'll need. Occasionally, the jars can break.

OTHER THAT CHILLI PLUM JAM, WHAT ELSE CAN YOU MAKE AS JARRED GIFTS?

As I mentioned earlier, making a jar of something is one of my traditions. And here are more recipes I've given regularly as gifts:

Here's how to make Chilli Plum Jam:

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