Description

Bright ruby red tomatoes are truly the jewels of the summer season. Their vibrant color, juicy texture, and rich flavor make them a star ingredient in countless dishes. While there’s nothing quite like biting into a sun-warmed tomato straight from the garden, sometimes the bounty of summer can be overwhelming. When you find yourself with more tomatoes than you can possibly eat fresh, it’s time to think about preserving that taste of summer for the cooler months ahead. One delicious way to do this is by making Tomato Jam—a slightly sweet, slightly spicy condiment that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful.

Tomato Jam is not a new creation; in fact, it has been enjoyed for generations. However, as modern conveniences have lessened the need to preserve food in the same way our ancestors did, recipes like this have become less common. Yet, Tomato Jam is a treasure worth rediscovering. The addition of warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and cloves enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes, creating a spread that is both comforting and complex. With a hint of heat from cayenne pepper and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar, this jam is anything but ordinary. It’s a condiment that can elevate a simple sandwich, add depth to a cheese platter, or serve as a unique topping for grilled meats.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and coarsely chopped
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Preparation Method

Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by coring and coarsely chopping the ripe tomatoes. The quality of your tomatoes is key to the flavor of the jam, so choose the ripest, freshest tomatoes you can find. The variety of tomato is less important, but a mix of heirloom and beefsteak tomatoes can add complexity to the flavor.

Combine and Cook:
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped tomatoes with the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced ginger, salt, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir the mixture well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. This helps to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.

Simmer Until Thickened:
Once the mixture has reached a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces and thickens to the consistency of jam. This process usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, but it may vary depending on the water content of your tomatoes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture has a thick, glossy appearance and can hold its shape when stirred.

Cool and Store:
After the jam has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the Tomato Jam to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. The flavors will continue to develop as the jam sits, making it even more delicious after a day or two.

Tips and Conclusion

Extra Tips
Experiment with Spices: The spice combination in this recipe is wonderfully balanced, but feel free to experiment with other spices. A dash of smoked paprika can add a smoky depth, while a hint of allspice can enhance the warming notes. Just be cautious not to overwhelm the natural flavor of the tomatoes.

Uses Beyond the Ordinary: While Tomato Jam is fantastic on crackers or sandwiches, don’t be afraid to get creative with its use. Try it as a topping for grilled chicken or pork, stir it into pasta for a quick and flavorful sauce, or even use it as a base for a unique pizza. It’s also a perfect accompaniment to a cheese board, especially with sharp cheddars and creamy brie.

Longer Storage: If you’d like to preserve the Tomato Jam for longer than 10 days, consider canning it. Follow proper canning procedures to safely store your jam for several months, allowing you to enjoy the taste of summer even in the depths of winter.

Conclusion
Tomato Jam is a delightful way to capture the bright, fresh flavors of summer and enjoy them year-round. With its perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice, this jam is far from your typical preserve. It’s a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple snacks to more elaborate meals. Making Tomato Jam is also a wonderful way to reduce waste, as it allows you to make the most of an abundant tomato harvest.

Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or using it as a glaze for meats, Tomato Jam is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a small effort with big rewards, offering a burst of summer flavor with every bite. So the next time you find yourself with more tomatoes than you know what to do with, give this Tomato Jam recipe a try. You’ll be glad you did, especially when you’re enjoying a taste of summer in the middle of winter.