If you like it spicy, you have probably had pepper jelly before. Pepper jelly became popular in the 80s and is still a common favorite today. There are a lot of ways to use this sweet and spicy spread, some of which may be surprising.

Pepper jelly is usually made with peppers, sugar, pectin, salt, vinegar, and even wine or liqueur. Sweet and spicy combinations continue to be a favorite amongst US consumers. Below we’ll explore some exciting ways to use pepper jelly.

Pork and Other Meats

Pepper jelly glazed on pork chops or chicken wings is a popular way to have it and a way that seems less daunting than other common uses. You have probably had something similar on your chicken wings as many places offer a variety of sauce for your wings.

It can be comparable to a teriyaki sauce with its elements of sweet and spicey. Sometimes it’s great to add a bit of pepper jelly to your teriyaki to give it a bit more of a kick. Many other traditional ways of using pepper jelly are as a glaze or sauce for bbq. 

Additionally, if you are not much of a fan of meat, it pairs well on salmon. Different types of peppers are used when making the jelly so you can have a variety when it comes to what you are looking for. Jalapenos are traditionally used and taste great with broiled salmon.

Cheeses

Another flavorful way to add pepper jelly into your life is to have it with cream cheese or other spreadable cheeses such as goat cheese or brie. This will give your cheese a touch of spicy and sweet. Served with crackers or pretzels, you have an interesting new appetizer for entertaining.

Another way to serve it with cream cheese is by baking it into some yummy dough or puff pastry. If you have some guests who aren’t crazy about spicy foods, this is a good alternative if you are looking for something to balance it out. 

Some jellies are made with fruit as well, such as peach habanero pepper jelly. These types of mixed jellies are great to pair with gouda, cheddar, and bleu cheese. Additionally, these kinds of jellies are good for those who are looking to tone down the spice. 

You could also make a sort of “grilled cheese” with cream cheese and pepper jelly. Adding bread or something like puff pastry to the cheese and jelly blend brings out another layer of flavor to your dish.

Fried Seafood

As with the other combinations, fried products are paired well with pepper jelly. Ultimately, fried foods are usually a safe bet on trying out new sauces, glazes, or spreads. This is because the fried taste can help with the taste of the sauce if you aren’t too fond of it once you try it.

Fried shrimp, calamari, or oysters are an appetizing option to enjoy with the sweet and spicy combination of peppers jelly. If you have ever had fried calamari, it usually comes with a type of sweet/spicy sauce. The sauce is similar to how peppers jelly would taste with fried seafood.

Really, the best way to see which food you prefer to have with your pepper jelly is to just try a variety. Some folks even enjoy peppers jelly on their ice cream. Although a less traditional way of consuming the delicious spread, it is a favorite of many.

For More Update Visit TheInspireSpy