Tomato jam is an underrated but incredibly delicious way to preserve the rich, tangy flavors of tomatoes. With the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, this versatile jam can be used on toast, sandwiches, or as a glaze for meats. The best part? It’s easy to make at home without using any preservatives. In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of making tomato jam using all-natural ingredients.
Why You’ll Love Homemade Tomato Jam
Making your own tomato jam has many advantages. Not only do you get to enjoy a fresher, more flavorful product, but you also avoid preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and unnecessary additives. Plus, homemade jam allows you to experiment with different flavor profiles, adjusting the sweetness, spice, and texture to suit your preferences.
This tomato jam recipe is naturally preserved using sugar, and it boasts a bright, tangy-sweet flavor perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or even complementing savory dishes like grilled meats.
Prep and Cook Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 40-50 minutes | 1 hour |
Ingredients for Preservative-Free Tomato Jam
Here’s what you’ll need to make 1 pint of this delicious tomato jam:
Full Ingredients List
- Tomatoes – 2 pounds (preferably ripe and juicy)
- Sugar – 1 cup (you can adjust depending on sweetness preference)
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
- Ginger – 1 teaspoon, freshly grated (optional but adds warmth)
- Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon
- Red pepper flakes – 1/4 teaspoon (optional for a spicy kick)
Variation Suggestions: If you’d like to experiment with flavors, you can add herbs like basil or thyme for a savory twist, or you could use honey instead of sugar for a healthier option.
Nutrition Table (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 grams |
| Sugars | 8 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Vitamin C | 10% |
How to Make Tomato Jam
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly. Core the tomatoes and then chop them into small chunks. You can leave the skins on for extra texture or remove them by blanching the tomatoes in hot water for 30 seconds, then plunging them into ice water to easily peel off the skin.
Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes
Place the chopped tomatoes in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
Step 3: Simmer and Reduce
Once the mixture has come to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jam should thicken and reduce during this time. If the tomatoes start to stick to the bottom, reduce the heat further and stir more frequently.
Step 4: Test for Doneness
To test if your jam is ready, use the freezer test: place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. If the jam holds its shape and wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and repeat the test.
Step 5: Store Your Jam
Once your jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the jam into a sterilized glass jar. Let the jam cool completely before sealing and refrigerating. It will keep for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Pro Tips for the Best Tomato Jam
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will directly affect the flavor of the jam. Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best results. Heirloom tomatoes work wonderfully, but Roma or plum tomatoes are great options as well.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: The acid in the lemon juice helps balance the sweetness of the jam and also acts as a natural preservative.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar slightly. However, remember that the sugar helps with the preservation, so don’t cut it out entirely.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
Serving Ideas
Tomato jam is incredibly versatile and can be paired with both sweet and savory dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Spread on Toast: Start your morning with a slice of toast slathered with tomato jam. Add a bit of cream cheese for a creamy contrast.
- Pair with Cheese: Serve your jam alongside a cheese board. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with sharp cheeses like cheddar or goat cheese.
- Use as a Glaze: Brush tomato jam over grilled chicken, pork chops, or salmon for a tangy-sweet glaze.
- Mix into Sandwiches: Spread tomato jam on your favorite sandwiches for a burst of flavor. It goes particularly well with turkey or grilled cheese.
- Serve with Crackers: Pair the jam with simple crackers for a quick, delicious snack.
Tomato Jam Variations
- Spicy Tomato Jam: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño for a spicy version of this jam. It’s perfect for pairing with savory dishes.
- Tomato-Basil Jam: Add a handful of fresh basil leaves during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a fragrant, herbal twist. This version is ideal for spreading on pizza or pairing with mozzarella.
- Honey-Sweetened Tomato Jam: Replace the sugar with honey for a healthier option. Honey adds a different depth of sweetness and makes the jam even more natural.
How to Store Tomato Jam
Refrigeration: Once your jam has cooled, transfer it to a sterilized glass jar. The jam will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing: If you want to store your tomato jam for longer, you can freeze it. Pour the cooled jam into a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Tomatoes are packed with essential nutrients and offer a variety of health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are high in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
- Vitamin C: Just one tomato provides around 40% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports skin health.
- Good Source of Fiber: Tomatoes contain fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
Conclusion
Homemade tomato jam is a fantastic way to preserve the flavors of fresh tomatoes while avoiding preservatives and additives. Whether you prefer it sweet, savory, or spicy, this versatile jam can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of this natural and delicious spread to enjoy for weeks.
Whether you’re new to making homemade jams or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try. Get creative with your own flavor variations, and enjoy the endless possibilities of this tangy-sweet treat!
Let me know if you’d like any more tips or adjustments to the recipe!
