Calabrian hot pepper jam is just one of the spicy foods to come out of Calabria, alongside ‘nduja and sardella, a spicy preserve that's considered the seafood counterpart to the former. It's impossible to speak of Calabrian cuisine without mentioning spicy red hot peppers that stand front and center in nearly all the southern Italian region's recipes.
Known for their intense spiciness, Calabrian hot peppers pack a bold and decisive flavor. Here's a look at their history along with some suggested uses.
Origins and history
The history of Calabrian hot peppers dates back to Italy's pre-Columbian civilizations. Spanish conquerors were the first to introduce them to both Africa and Europe. Italy's favorable climate led to the cultivation of these red peppers mainly in the south – Calabria in particular – where they were initially used to preserve perishable foods like meat or to flavor humble dishes. Unsurprisingly, Calabrians are the main consumers of hot peppers in Italy today.
Characteristics, recipe, and serving ideas
This jam was once made at home, though nowadays, markets sell a variety of jarred versions. The preparation takes place every year towards the end of the summer – when the red peppers mature. Once fully ripened, they're ground with a sieve, masher, or immersion blender, depending on the cook's preferred destiny.
The jam’s main ingredients are (of course) fresh red chili peppers, white wine vinegar, and granulated sugar, which results in a pleasant sweet-and-sour note. The spiciness can be diluted by tempering the mixture with a less spicy pepper variety. Red wine may be added or even honey or apples, which give a sweeter, fruitier note.
The recipe is simple: wearing rubber gloves, chop the red peppers, transfer them to a pot with vinegar, and cook. Once cooked, blend the mixture until smooth and pour it back into the pot with some sugar. Bring to a boil. You can also cook all the ingredients together over low heat and blend once the jam finishes cooking. (Of course, if you can't source the Calabrian hot pepper variety, you can make the jam using another type of hot pepper.)
Calabrian hot pepper jam goes well with both savory and sweet dishes. You can spread it on croutons or toasted bread or serve it alongside mixed cheese boards - it's perfect with both hard and soft types of cheese. Enjoy it as a condiment for meat or fish dishes. You can also use it as an embellishment for pasta dishes, pizza, or even as a dessert filling – especially with a chocolatey one.
This article was originally published in May 2020 and has been updated.