Tomato Jam

Tomato jam? No, it's not a typo. A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, this unique jam can be spread on biscuits, burgers, and grilled cheese sandwiches. It's a tangy and thick condiment that's the perfect way to enjoy a bounty of ripe tomatoes year-round.

Fresh tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, and seasonings cook down to a sticky, jammy consistency for a spread that adds a tangy, savory, and sweet flavor to anything it touches. A hint of orange, fresh ginger, and clove add complexity, and paired with creamy cheeses, meats, and even crackers, it has the power to elevate any dish. Bonus? It also makes a great gift.

Tomato Jam vs. Chutney or Ketchup

Tomato jam is a reduction of fresh tomatoes, sugar, an acid (like vinegar), and seasonings, similar to a chutney. While jams like this one are typically made with sugar to preserve them for long-term storage, chutneys are meant to be consumed within a few days, and are often more heavily spiced and savory in nature.

Ketchup, on the other hand, is essentially a watered-down version of tomato jam—thinner in consistency, and more mild in flavor.

Ingredients for Tomato Jam

While most of these ingredients are pantry staples, we added some unique twists for a complex jam that will keep you coming back for more. To make tomato jam, you'll need:

• Assorted tomatoes: Roma or plum tomatoes work well, although you can also use cherry tomatoes, or even green tomatoes.
• Granulated sugar: To sweeten the mixture and thicken to a jammy consistency. Can also be substituted with part brown sugar for a more robust flavor.
• Apple cider vinegar: Acidity balances the sweetness.
• Orange zest: Adds a citrus punch that marries the savory and sweet flavors.
• Fresh orange juice: A bright citrus note.
• Grated ginger: A pungent flavor; can be skipped if you aren't a fan.
• Sea salt: Enhances the flavor of the jam.
• Ground coriander: A mellow, earthy flavor.
• Whole cloves: A subtly sweet spice that adds warmth.

Variations on Tomato Jam

Once you've tried this recipe, you may be curious about other ways to cook with it. Try these next time:

• Bacon tomato jam: Stir in chopped, cooked bacon before simmering the tomato mixture.
• Extra kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or bourbon after cooking, or crushed red pepper while simmering.
• Play with ingredients: Try substituting in brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, other types of citrus fruits, spices, or herbs to make this jam your own.

How To Make Tomato Jam

Pulling out a jar of this homemade jam is endlessly impressive, and no one will know all it took was peeling some tomatoes and a slow simmer. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Blanch tomatoes: Bring 6 quarts of water to a boil. Add tomatoes; boil 1 minute. Drain and plunge into ice water.
• Step 2. Cook tomatoes: Peel tomatoes, letting juices drip into saucepan. Core and chop; place in saucepan. Add remaining ingredients. Bring to a low boil; reduce heat to low, and simmer 30 to 40 minutes or until thickened.
• Step 3. Mash jam mixture: Remove and discard cloves. Mash tomato mixture to desired consistency. Remove from heat; cool 20 minutes.

What To Serve With Tomato Jam

Tomato jam is an excellent topper for sandwiches (particularly grilled cheese), burgers, or biscuits. Enjoy as a dip with cheese and crackers, or portion onto a charcuterie board.

How To Store Tomato Jam

Refrigerate jam in a tightly-sealed jar for up to one month. Have an excess of ripe tomatoes? Make a bigger batch and use a water bath to seal for longer storage (up to one year).

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.