If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor that’s both rich and vibrant, this Sweet and Tangy Slow-Cooked Tomato Jam Recipe is exactly what you need. It captures the essence of ripe tomatoes slowly caramelized with spices and a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. This jam is a true crowd-pleaser — think of it as a magical condiment that can turn everyday dishes into extraordinary bites, with a warm, homemade touch that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients makes this recipe wonderfully approachable. Each element plays a vital role, whether it’s building the deep, complex flavors or adding richness and texture.
- 3 pounds ripe tomatoes: The star of the show, these provide juicy sweetness and vibrant color to your jam.
- 1 large onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when cooked down slowly.
- 3 cloves garlic: Provides aromatic warmth that complements the tomato’s acidity.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Essential for that perfect sweet balance and jammy consistency.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Brings a pleasant tanginess that brightens up the flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Boosts freshness and lends a subtle citrus kick.
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a spicy warmth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides a whisper of warmth and spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way in giving an intriguing aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice: Rounds out the spice mix with its sweet, peppery notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want a subtle hint of heat to keep things interesting.
How to Make Sweet and Tangy Slow-Cooked Tomato Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes
Start by washing your tomatoes thoroughly. Core and chop them finely for quick, even cooking. If you’re aiming for a smoother texture, peel the tomatoes by briefly blanching them in boiling water and slipping off the skins. This step is optional but can make your jam silkier.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes, Onion, and Garlic
In a large, heavy pot, toss in the chopped tomatoes along with the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. These ingredients will form the base of your jam, releasing their natural juices and creating a luscious mix as they cook down.
Step 3: Sweeten and Acidify
Add the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and fresh lemon juice to your pot. Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves into the liquid, which starts to develop that signature sweet and tangy underpinning of the jam.
Step 4: Spice it Up
Sprinkle in the grated ginger, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, don’t hesitate to add the red pepper flakes. These spices promise that warm, inviting depth which makes this Sweet and Tangy Slow-Cooked Tomato Jam Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 5: Bring to a Gentle Boil
Set your pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent anything from sticking or burning on the bottom. This step starts the beautiful process of reducing and thickening.
Step 6: Simmer Low and Slow
Now reduce the heat to low, letting the jam simmer uncovered for about 2 to 3 hours. Patience here is key — slow-cooking allows flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken nicely. Stir occasionally for even cooking and to keep it from catching on the pot.
Step 7: Check the Thickness
To test if the jam is ready, spoon a little onto a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it holds its shape without running, you’re good to go. This texture check ensures your jam will spread perfectly when cooled.
Step 8: Cool and Jar
Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and let the jam cool slightly. Then ladle it into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace at the top. Tightly seal the lids, preparing your jam for either short-term refrigeration or long-term storage.
Step 9: Store or Process for Shelf Life
After filling, allow the jars to reach room temperature. You can keep your jam in the fridge for up to two weeks or extend its shelf life by processing jars in a boiling water bath, keeping this delightful treat ready to use whenever you want.
How to Serve Sweet and Tangy Slow-Cooked Tomato Jam Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like basil or thyme over your jam when serving to add an herbal brightness that complements the sweet and tangy flavors. A few cracked black pepper flakes on top can also enhance the spiciness subtly.
Side Dishes
This tomato jam shines as a companion to rich cheeses such as goat cheese or sharp cheddar, making it a star on any cheese board. It’s also fantastic with roasted meats or slathered on crusty bread to balance savory flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try dolloping this jam onto burgers or grilled chicken for an unexpected twist, or mix it into salad dressings for a unique tangy finish. It can even serve as a glaze for roasted vegetables, adding luscious texture and dynamic flavor layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once opened, keep the Sweet and Tangy Slow-Cooked Tomato Jam Recipe stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it across meals.
Freezing
If you want to keep your jam longer, freezing is a safe option. Spoon the jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, then freeze for up to six months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Reheating
When ready to use frozen jam, gentle reheating on the stove or in the microwave works best. Warm it gradually over low heat, stirring occasionally to bring back that luscious consistency without compromising the vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! While ripe, juicy tomatoes work best for sweetness, combining varieties like plum, beefsteak, or even heirlooms can add interesting texture and flavor depth to your jam.
Is it necessary to peel the tomatoes?
Peeling is optional. Removing the skins results in a smoother jam, but leaving them adds a bit more rustic texture and extra fiber. Choose based on your texture preference.
How spicy is this jam with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add only a subtle heat that balances the sweetness rather than overpowering it. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely depending on your heat tolerance.
Can I make this jam without sugar?
Sugar is important for texture and preserving the jam’s shelf life, but you can reduce it slightly or substitute with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind it might affect flavor and consistency.
How long does the jam last when canned properly?
If processed in a boiling water bath and sealed correctly, your tomato jam can last up to a year stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within two weeks.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making your own jam, and this Sweet and Tangy Slow-Cooked Tomato Jam Recipe is a perfect place to start that delicious journey. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and endlessly versatile, promising to add a lovely homemade touch to your meals. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Sweet and Tangy Slow-Cooked Tomato Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 30m
- Cook Time: 3h 0m
- Total Time: 3h 30m
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet and Tangy Slow-Cooked Tomato Jam is a perfect balance of ripe tomatoes, aromatic spices, and sweet vinegar notes, simmered low and slow to develop a rich, thick jam. It’s ideal for spreading on toast, serving alongside cheese, or adding a flavorful twist to sandwiches and appetizers.
Ingredients
Produce
- 3 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and finely chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Pantry
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Instructions
- Prepare Tomatoes: Begin by washing and preparing the tomatoes. Core them and chop them finely. For a smoother jam, optionally blanch tomatoes in boiling water for one minute and peel off the skins.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped tomatoes, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Add Sweeteners and Acids: Stir in the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and fresh lemon juice until the sugar has dissolved completely in the mixture.
- Spice the Jam: Mix in the grated fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground allspice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you desire a touch of heat.
- Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking or scorching.
- Simmer the Jam: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Watch for any sticking at the bottom and scrape as needed.
- Check Thickness: To test jam doneness, place a small amount on a cool plate and let it sit for a minute. The jam should hold its shape and not be runny.
- Cool Slightly: Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and allow the jam to cool a little before jar filling.
- Jar the Jam: Transfer the warm jam into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace at the top. Seal tightly with sterilized lids.
- Store Properly: Let jars cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or process with a boiling water bath for longer shelf life.
Notes
- For a smoother jam, peeling tomatoes after blanching is recommended.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
- Use sterilized jars and lids to ensure safe storage and prevent spoilage.
- If you want to preserve the jam long term, properly process the jars in a boiling water bath.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent burning at the bottom of the pot.
