As a lover of homemade jams and preserves, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Spicy Tomato Jam. This sweet and spicy spread is perfect for adding a kick to your meals, from burgers to cheese plates. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it, how to make it, and some great serving suggestions.
Why You’ll Love It
- Unique Flavor: This jam combines the sweetness of tomatoes with a spicy kick, making it a versatile condiment for various dishes.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a delicious homemade jam in no time.
- Customizable: Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking, and feel free to add other spices for extra flavor.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Serving Size: 8 ounces (makes about 1 cup)
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Roma tomatoes (about 10 tomatoes)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
How to Make It
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes, remove the cores, and cut a shallow “x” at the bottom of each. Blanch them in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath. Peel, seed, and dice the tomatoes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, red pepper flakes, ginger, and cinnamon. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Cool and Serve: Let the jam cool to room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Burgers: Add a layer of spicy tomato jam for a flavorful twist.
- Cheese Platters: Pair with crackers or bread for a sweet and savory snack.
- Grilled Meats: Use as a glaze for chicken or pork.
Tips for Customization
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Additional Spices: Try adding cumin or coriander for extra depth.
- Sweetness: Use less sugar if you prefer a tangier jam.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of tomatoes?
A: Yes, but plum tomatoes like Roma work best due to their lower water content.
Q: How long does the jam last?
A: Stored in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 2-3 weeks.
Q: Can I can this jam?
A: Yes, follow proper canning procedures to preserve it longer. Enjoy your homemade Spicy Tomato Jam and experiment with different flavors to make it your own!
