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Spicy Cherry Tomato Jam with Lime and Ginger Recipe

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4.2 from 2 reviews

This vibrant tomato jam recipe transforms fresh cherry tomatoes into a sweet and spicy preserve bursting with lime, ginger, and warming spices. Perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or enhancing savory dishes, this slow-simmered jam offers a unique twist on traditional fruit preserves.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 cups (about 32 servings of 2 tablespoons each)

Ingredients

Tomato Jam Ingredients

  • 2 ½ pounds cherry tomatoes, halved (about 4 pints)
  • 1 ¾ cups sugar
  • Grated zest of 1 lime
  • 4 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoons red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half or quarters depending on their size to ensure even cooking and easier breakdown.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large non-reactive pot, mix together the halved tomatoes, sugar, lime zest, lime juice, freshly grated ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, salt, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture up to a rolling boil to activate the sugar and start breaking down the tomatoes.
  4. Simmer the Jam: Reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer without covering the pot. Allow it to cook gently, stirring regularly to prevent sticking and promote even cooking, for 1 to 2 hours. The tomatoes will soften and the mixture will thicken to a jammy consistency. Cooking may take up to 3 hours based on simmer temperature and desired thickness.
  5. Check Consistency: Stir occasionally and monitor the jam’s texture, cooking longer if a thicker, sticky consistency is preferred.
  6. Remove from Heat: Once the jam reaches the desired thickness, take the pot off the stove to stop the cooking process.
  7. Store the Jam: Spoon the finished jam into clean jars and refrigerate to preserve freshness. This homemade jam keeps well when chilled.
  8. Serve: Use approximately 2 tablespoons per serving. The recipe yields about 4 cups of tomato jam.

Notes

  • Cooking time varies based on simmer temperature; longer simmering yields thicker jam.
  • Use a non-reactive pot (such as stainless steel or enameled) to avoid metallic flavors and discoloration.
  • Stir frequently to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom and burning.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired spiciness.
  • Store the jam refrigerated and consume within a few weeks for best flavor.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American