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
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half or quarters depending on their size to ensure even cooking and easier breakdown.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Check Consistency: Stir occasionally and monitor the jam’s texture, cooking longer if a thicker, sticky consistency is preferred.
- Remove from Heat: Once the jam reaches the desired thickness, take the pot off the stove to stop the cooking process.
- Store the Jam: Spoon the finished jam into clean jars and refrigerate to preserve freshness. This homemade jam keeps well when chilled.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American