Sweet Cherry and Hot Pepper Glaze

Sweet Cherry and Hot Pepper Glaze Recipe - Delicious and Easy

| Servings: 4

Introduction

Sweet Cherry and Hot Pepper Glaze is a unique and flavorful glaze that can be used to add a sweet and spicy kick to a variety of dishes. This glaze is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a topping for desserts.

History

The combination of sweet cherries and hot peppers may seem unusual, but it creates a delicious balance of flavors that has been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe is a modern twist on traditional glazes, combining the sweetness of cherries with the heat of hot peppers to create a versatile and delicious condiment.

Ingredients

1 can of dark sweet cherries in heavy syrup
2 yellow hot peppers
0.25 cup of sugar
2 tbsp of cornstarch

How to prepare

Drain the cherries, while reserving the syrup. Chop the cherries into small pieces and combine them with the chopped peppers. Set this mixture aside. In a medium saucepan, mix together the sugar and cornstarch. Gradually stir in enough water to the reserved cherry syrup to make 1 cup. Cook and stir this mixture over medium heat until it becomes thickened and bubbly. Then, add the cherry-pepper mixture and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Variations

For a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of sugar in the recipe.
For a spicier glaze, add more hot peppers or include the seeds for an extra kick.
Add a splash of soy sauce or vinegar for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop the cherries and peppers into small pieces to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the glaze.

- Adjust the amount of hot peppers to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder glaze, use fewer peppers. For a spicier glaze, add more peppers.

- Stir the glaze constantly while cooking to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.

- Allow the glaze to cool slightly before using it to allow it to thicken and develop its full flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This glaze is perfect for drizzling over grilled chicken, pork, or tofu. It can also be used as a topping for grilled vegetables or as a sauce for stir-fried dishes.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering: Simmer the glaze over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Thickening: Use cornstarch to thicken the glaze to the desired consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have hot peppers, you can use red pepper flakes or hot sauce as a substitute.

- Agave nectar or honey can be used in place of sugar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Simply reheat it before using.

Presentation Ideas

Drizzle the glaze over your dish just before serving for a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch. Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped nuts for added texture and color.

Pairing Recommendations

This glaze pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a topping for ice cream or cheesecake. Serve with a side of rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 100

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 25g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 18g

Fats

Total Fat: 0g

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 0g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 10% DV

Iron: 2% DV

Alergens

This recipe contains cornstarch, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.

Summary

This Sweet Cherry and Hot Pepper Glaze is a low-fat, low-protein condiment that is high in carbohydrates and sugar. It also provides a small amount of dietary fiber and vitamin C.

Summary

Sweet Cherry and Hot Pepper Glaze is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a unique twist to a variety of dishes. With a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, this glaze is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Sweet Cherry and Hot Pepper Glaze. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little kitchen. Martha was known for her delicious homemade jams and preserves, and that day she was busy whipping up a batch of her famous cherry pepper glaze.

As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the combination of sweet cherries and spicy peppers. Martha noticed my curiosity and offered to show me how to make the glaze myself. I eagerly accepted her offer, and together we set to work.

Martha began by pitting and chopping a large bowl of fresh cherries, while I diced up some hot peppers. The contrast of the vibrant red cherries and fiery red peppers was both beautiful and enticing. Martha explained that the key to a successful glaze was finding the perfect balance between sweet and spicy flavors.

After simmering the cherries and peppers with sugar, vinegar, and a touch of cinnamon, Martha poured the mixture into sterilized jars and sealed them tight. The aroma that filled her kitchen was heavenly – a tantalizing blend of sweet cherries and spicy peppers that made my mouth water.

As Martha and I sat down to enjoy a taste of the glaze on some warm crusty bread, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special. The sweet and tangy cherries paired perfectly with the fiery kick of the hot peppers, creating a flavor sensation that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that day on, I was hooked. I made batch after batch of the Sweet Cherry and Hot Pepper Glaze, experimenting with different types of peppers and variations of the recipe. I shared jars of the glaze with friends and family, who all raved about its unique and addictive flavor.

Over the years, I have made the glaze for countless gatherings and special occasions. It has become a staple in my kitchen, and I always keep a few jars on hand to give as gifts or enjoy with a cheese board or grilled meats.

Each time I make the glaze, I think back to that day in Martha's kitchen and the joy I felt discovering this delicious recipe. It has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, and I am grateful to Martha for sharing her secrets with me.

As I grow older, I find comfort in knowing that I can pass down this recipe to future generations, sharing a taste of my love for cooking with those I hold dear. The Sweet Cherry and Hot Pepper Glaze will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy of discovery and the power of sharing good food with others.