Imagine spreading a spoonful of pure culinary magic that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and aromatic flavors. This Sweet and Tangy Tomato Jam is not just a condiment – it's a game-changing recipe that will elevate your toast, cheese boards, and sandwiches from ordinary to extraordinary. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you'll create a versatile preserve that captures the essence of ripe summer tomatoes in every delectable bite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Wash and chop the ripe tomatoes into small, uniform pieces, removing any tough cores or blemishes.
- In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, combine chopped tomatoes, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger.
- Place the pan over medium-high heat and stir the mixture to help sugar dissolve and combine ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, maintaining a gentle simmer.
- Allow the mixture to cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, for approximately 50-60 minutes.
- As the jam cooks, it will gradually thicken and reduce, with tomatoes breaking down and creating a glossy, spreadable consistency.
- To test jam's readiness, place a small amount on a chilled plate - it should wrinkle when pushed with a finger and have a thick, jam-like texture.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then transfer to sterilized glass jars for storage.
- Allow jam to cool completely at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.
Tips
- Choose Ripe, Flavorful Tomatoes: The key to an exceptional jam is using fully ripe, in-season tomatoes with deep, rich flavor.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This prevents scorching and ensures even heat distribution during the long cooking process.
- Stir Frequently: Regular stirring prevents the jam from sticking and burning, especially as it thickens.
- Test for Doneness: The wrinkle test on a chilled plate is crucial – it ensures your jam has the perfect consistency.
- Sterilize Jars Properly: Clean, sterilized jars are essential for preserving the jam's flavor and preventing spoilage.
- Allow Proper Cooling: Let the jam cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation and potential bacterial growth.
- Store Correctly: Refrigerate the jam and consume within 2-3 weeks for optimal taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
