Pineapple–Garlic Chili Jam

Instructions:

1. Add the pineapple, garlic, sugar, apple cider vinegar, chili flakes, soy sauce, ginger if using, and salt to a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often to prevent sticking.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the mixture is fragrant and slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, until the jam becomes glossy and jam-like.
5. Remove from heat and allow to cool; the jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
6. Transfer to a clean jar and refrigerate.

Variations

• Use honey or brown sugar in place of some of the sugar for deeper sweetness.
• Add finely minced fresh chili peppers for a brighter, fresher heat.
• Blend the jam briefly for a smoother, sauce-like consistency.

Tips

• Finely chopping the pineapple helps create a more uniform texture.
• Adjust chili flakes gradually, tasting as you go to control the heat.
• This jam is excellent brushed onto grilled chicken, shrimp, or pork during the final minutes of cooking, or served with cream cheese and crackers as a quick appetizer.