| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 265 | 0.4g | 0.1g | 67.2g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 66g | 2.2g | 1.0g | 0.39g |
Every once in a while, I love to step away from my beloved seafood recipes and venture into other vivid flavor realms. One such adventure gave me a delightful recipe I fell in love with: the Spicy Grapefruit Marmalade.
The Sweet and Tart Harmony
What I love about this recipe is the brilliant balance it achieves between the tartness of the citrus fruits and the sweetness delivered by the sugar. Grapefruit and lemon, the main stars of the show, bring such a refreshing zestiness to the table, which is beautifully balanced out by the sugar. The result is a marmalade with a depth of flavor that’s truly unmatched.
Growing up in Portland, Maine, my palate was trained on the pristine seafood of the Atlantic coast. But I’ve always enjoyed the occasional deviation from my coastal cuisine comfort-zone, and this Spicy Grapefruit Marmalade is a delicious diversion.
Adding a Splash of Spice
Moving away from the sweet citrusy profile, what gives this marmalade its unique character is the addition of red chilies. They add an unexpected spicy kick, reminding me of some fun spicy dishes I’ve tried in my culinary explorations. Combining the citrus fruits’ zesty acidity with the chilies’ heat brings about a bold and intriguing flavor fusion.
This marmalade also mimics some aspects of traditional marmalade recipes, with some extra spice for good measure. And if you’re thinking of marvelous pairings, it works wonders on a loaf of fresh-out-of-the-oven homemade bread. A simple pairing, indeed, but an explosion of flavors in your mouth.
A Spoonful of Health
Besides tantalizing your taste buds, this Spicy Grapefruit Marmalade also brings along some health perks. Grapefruit is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this recipe a delightful way to enhance your health. And did you know that lemons packed with vitamin C, or that chilies are proven to boost your metabolism? So not only do you get a delicious spread, but a tasty health booster as well.
Owing to the New England winter season, I often find myself yearning for something that brings a little heat and tropical vibes into my kitchen. That’s exactly what this Spicy Grapefruit Marmalade offers. A lovely combination of tart, sweet, and spicy guaranteed to warm up your winter mornings.
What You’ll Need
- 4 Grapefruits
- 2 Lemons
- 2.5 cups Sugar
- 1 cup Water
- 2 Red Chilis
- 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Method
Step One:
Start by washing the 4 grapefruits and 2 lemons thoroughly. After they are clean, grab a sharp knife and cut them into thin slices. Remember to keep the peels on, this will contribute to the marmalade’s texture.
Step Two:
Take the cut slices of grapefruits and lemons and place them into a large pot. Then, pour in 1 cup of water.
Step Three:
While the fruit is beginning to cook on medium heat, take 2 red chili peppers, halve them, clean out the seeds and cut them into thin slices. Once they are prepared, add them to the pot.
Step Four:
Add in 2.5 cups of sugar to the cooking mixture, stirring continuously. Continue to cook this mixture over medium heat until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step Five:
Pour 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into the pot and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir the mixture well to ensure all the ingredients are dispersed evenly.
Step Six:
Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 hours. Make sure to stir it every now and then to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You’ll know it’s ready once it’s reached a thick, syrupy consistency.
Step Seven:
Once your mixture has reached the consistency of marmalade, remove it from heat and allow it to cool.
Step Eight:
After the marmalade has cooled to a safe handling temperature, transfer it into clean jars and close them with their lids. They are then ready for storage or consumption. Enjoy your homemade spicy grapefruit marmalade!
