Smoky Plum Chipotle Sauce

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Smoky Plum Chipotle Sauce.

1. Step 1

   Start by preparing your plums. Place them in a colander set over a large bowl, and with gloved hands, squeeze the plums to extract the juice. Discard the pulp and repeat until you have about 8 cups of luscious plum juice.

2. Step 2

   In a small saucepan, combine 3/4 cup of the freshly squeezed plum juice with the pressed garlic and finely chopped onion. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Next, pour the garlic-onion mixture into a large pot. Add the remaining 7 1/2 cups of plum juice, stirring in the white sugar, apple cider vinegar, Southwest chipotle seasoning, roasted garlic seasoning, finely chopped jalapeno pepper, salt, and liquid smoke flavoring. Mix well until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.

4. Step 4

   Bring this vibrant mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook the sauce down until it thickens, which will take about 1 1/2 hours. Remember to stir frequently to prevent any sticking or burning.

5. Step 5

   While the sauce is simmering, sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for at least 5 minutes. Once the sauce is ready, carefully pack it into the hot, sterilized jars, filling them to within 1/4 inch of the top. Use a knife or thin spatula to remove any air bubbles by running it around the inside of the jars. Wipe the rims with a moist paper towel to ensure a clean seal, then top with lids and screw on the rings.

6. Step 6

   Prepare a large stockpot by placing a rack at the bottom and filling it halfway with water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Using a jar holder, carefully lower the filled jars into the pot, ensuring there’s a 2-inch space between them. If needed, add more boiling water until it covers the jars by at least 1 inch. Cover the pot and process the jars for 10 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Once processed, remove the jars from the pot and place them on a cloth-covered or wooden surface, leaving space between them to cool. After they’ve cooled, press the center of each lid to check the seal; it should not move up or down. Store your delicious plum chipotle sauce in a cool, dark place, and enjoy the burst of flavors in your meals!