There’s something undeniably magical about a good chilli jam — that perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and tang that turns everyday meals into something special. It’s the kind of jar you reach for without thinking: a spoonful on a cheese board, a swipe on a burger, a quick stir into noodles or stir‑fries, a glossy glaze for roasted meats and veg. Once you’ve made your own, the store‑bought versions suddenly feel a little… flat.
This recipe is exactly the sort of thing that earns its place in your Pantry Staples lineup. It’s built from a handful of vibrant ingredients — red peppers, fiery chillies, fresh ginger, garlic, tomatoes, sugar, and white wine vinegar — simmered down into a glossy, ruby‑red jam that’s as beautiful as it is versatile. As it bubbles away, your kitchen fills with that sweet‑spicy aroma that promises something bold and homemade.

The result is a bright, punchy, sweet‑and‑spicy all‑rounder that quietly upgrades everything it touches. Keep a jar in the fridge and you’ll find yourself using it constantly — on sandwiches, with cheese, in marinades, or anywhere that needs a little lift.
Make it once, and this chilli jam becomes a pantry staple you’ll never want to be without.
Serving Suggestions
With Cheese & Snacks
- Spoon over a cheese board — especially sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat’s cheese.
- Spread onto crackers or crostini with a swipe of cream cheese.
- Stir into whipped feta or labneh for a quick dip.
Burgers, Wraps and Seafood
- Add a generous layer to burgers for instant sweet‑heat.
- Use as a dip for deep fried prawns
- Drizzle into chicken wraps or falafel pitas for a bright kick.
Breakfast & Brunch
- Serve alongside fried or poached eggs.
- Swirl into avocado toast.
- Mix into baked beans for a smoky‑sweet upgrade.
Stir-Fries, Noodles & Bowls
- Stir through noodles, fried rice, or stir‑fries for quick flavour.
- Add to ramen or brothy bowls for a spicy-sweet lift.
- Toss with roasted vegetables straight from the oven.
Glazes, Marinades & Roasts
- Brush over roast chicken, pork, or salmon in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Mix with soy sauce and lime for a simple marinade.
- Glaze roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or aubergine.
Dressings & Dips
- Whisk into vinaigrettes for warm salads or grain bowls.
- Stir into mayonnaise or yoghurt for a quick dipping sauce.
- Combine with olive oil and lemon for a sweet‑spicy drizzle.
Chilli Jam – (Shellderado Style)
Cuisine: Other world cuisineDifficulty: Easy4
Jars20
minutes1
hourIngredients
8 red peppers, roughly chopped
5-8 red chillies, (keep some seeds if you like it hot)
1 400g tin of tomatoes
1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
10 cloves of garlic, peeled
700g sugar (caster or granulated)
250ml white wine vinegar
Directions
- Chop your red peppers, chillies, and tomatoes. Peel and grate the ginger, and peel the garlic cloves.
- Place the peppers, chillies, tomatoes, garlic, and ginger into a blender or food processor. Blitz until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a large saucepan. Add the sugar and white wine vinegar. Stir well, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes glossy.
You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon like jam. - Pour the hot chilli jam into sterilised jars, seal tightly, and leave to cool completely.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions
Serve with cheese and crackers for a fiery-sweet contrast.
Add a spoonful to burgers or sandwiches for extra zing.
Use as a glaze for roasted meats or vegetables.
Stir into stir-fries or noodles for instant heat and flavour.




