Jalape&ntildeo-Spiked Cherry Preserves

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Add all ingredients to a large, heavy saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer, skimming foam from the top from time to time, until it is a little thickened and reduced to 4 cups, about 50 minutes.
2. Cool the preserves, then transfer them to an airtight container. The mixture will firm up more as it cools. Cover and chill.
3. Refrigerate the preserves in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.