tomato jam

Have you ever thought tomatoes could taste like candy?

Most people think tomatoes only belong in salads or pasta sauces, but what if I told you they could be sweet, sticky, and spoon-worthy, too? This might sound surprising, but it’s true—tomato jam is the unsung hero of homemade spreads. This recipe will flip how you see tomatoes forever. Ready to find out why?

What’s Special About Easy Tomato Jam?

tomato jam

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• Author: nakisha
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: About 1 ½ cups 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

This Easy Tomato Jam is sweet, tangy, sticky, and full of flavor. With just a few fresh ingredients, this simple jam turns everyday tomatoes into a spoon-worthy spread. Perfect for toast, grilled cheese, or as a topping for meats and cheeses.

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Ingredients

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• 2 pounds fresh tomatoes (Roma or cherry work best), diced
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

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Instructions

1. Prep the Tomatoes: Wash and dice tomatoes. No need to peel. If using cherry tomatoes, cut in half.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, ginger, salt, and red pepper flakes to a medium saucepan.
3. Bring to a Boil: Stir well and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
4. Simmer: Lower heat and simmer for 40–50 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
5. Check for Doneness: When thick and glossy, and a spoon dragged through leaves a trail, it’s ready.
6. Cool and Store: Let cool slightly, then transfer to clean jars. Serve warm or cold.

Notes

Try it on toast, burgers, grilled cheese, or crackers with cream cheese. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer. Add herbs, spices, or citrus zest to customize. Not shelf-stable unless properly canned.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Simmered
• Cuisine: American-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
• Calories: 25
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 0.2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Tomato jam is a sweet and savory spread made from fresh tomatoes, sugar, and spices. It’s perfect on toast, sandwiches, or even paired with cheese. The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity and flavor—you only need a few ingredients and a little patience.

• Time Needed: About 1 hour total (15 minutes prep, 45 minutes cooking)
• Difficulty: Very easy (great for beginners)
• Why it’s special: Combines sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors in a thick, jammy texture

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you need for a perfect batch of Easy Tomato Jam:

• Fresh Tomatoes (2 pounds):
  The star! Use ripe, juicy tomatoes like Roma or cherry. Canned tomatoes can work in a pinch.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup):
  Helps create that sweet, jammy goodness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (¼ cup):
  Adds brightness and balance to the sweetness.
• Grated Fresh Ginger (1 tablespoon):
  Adds a gentle heat and warmth. You can use powdered ginger if needed.
• Salt (½ teaspoon):
  Brings all the flavors together.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional, ¼ teaspoon):
  For a touch of spice.

Substitutions & Variations:

• Use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• Swap lemon juice for vinegar if needed.
• Add cinnamon or cloves for a warmer jam, especially in fall.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Tomatoes

• Wash and dice your tomatoes. You can leave the skins on—they’ll cook down beautifully.
• If using cherry tomatoes, cut them in half.

2. Cook Everything Together

• Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan.
• Stir well to combine.

3. Simmer and Stir

• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
• Once it starts bubbling, lower the heat to a simmer.
• Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.

4. Wait for the Magic

• Keep cooking for 40–50 minutes, stirring often.
• You’ll see it thicken into a sticky, glossy jam.
• When you can drag your spoon across the pan and it leaves a trail, it’s done.

Tips:

• Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.
• Taste and adjust sugar, salt, or vinegar halfway through.
• Don’t rush—low and slow cooking builds the flavor.

Assembly & Presentation Tips

Once your jam is done:

• Cool it slightly before transferring to clean jars.
• Use it warm or cold.
• Spread it on:
  • Toasted bread
  • Burgers
  • Grilled cheese
  • Crackers with cream cheese
  • Roasted meats

Presentation Tip:
Serve in a clear glass jar with a spoon and a sprig of thyme or rosemary on the side for a rustic look.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in a clean, airtight jar for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Freeze in small containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Make-Ahead: You can double the batch and store half for later!

Note: This is not a shelf-stable jam for long-term pantry storage unless you properly can it.

Recipe Variations

• Smoky Tomato Jam: Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
• Spicy Tomato Jam: Double the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeño.
• Herby Tomato Jam: Stir in chopped basil or thyme at the end.
• Citrus Tomato Jam: Add orange zest for a bright, fruity twist.
• Sugar-Free Option: Use maple syrup or honey, adjusting to taste.

Conclusion

Now that you know how easy it is to make Easy Tomato Jam, it’s your turn to try it! This little jar of magic can turn the simplest snack into something special. Whether you spread it on toast or use it to wow guests at your next dinner party, one thing is for sure—you’ll never look at tomatoes the same way again.

So go ahead, grab some tomatoes and give it a try. Who knew tomatoes could be this sweet?

FAQs About Easy Tomato Jam

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes! Whole peeled canned tomatoes work well. Just chop them up before cooking and drain some of the juice for thicker jam.

2. Is tomato jam healthy?
Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, and you control the sugar level. It’s a healthier option than many store-bought jams.

3. How do I know when it’s done?
When the jam looks thick and shiny and doesn’t run all over the plate when spooned, it’s ready.

4. Can I preserve this for long-term storage?
Only if you follow safe canning practices. Otherwise, keep it in the fridge or freezer.

5. What’s the best way to enjoy tomato jam?
Try it on toast, sandwiches, grilled meats, or with cheese and crackers. It adds a sweet and savory touch to just about anything.