Spiced Tomato Jam for Canning
📝 Ingredients:
5 cups 🍅 chopped ripe tomatoes (about 2 lbs, cored and peeled)
2 cups 🍬 granulated sugar
1/4 cup 🍋 lemon juice
1 tbsp 🧂 grated fresh ginger
1 tsp 🌶️ red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
1 tsp 🧄 minced garlic
1/2 tsp 🧂 ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp 🧂 ground cloves
1/4 tsp 🧂 salt
🫙 Sterilized canning jars and lids
👩🍳 Instructions:
Prep the Tomatoes:
Start by washing your 🍅 tomatoes well. To peel them easily, score a small “x” on the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water. The skins will slip right off! Core and chop the tomatoes, then measure out 5 cups.
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped 🍅 tomatoes, 🍬 sugar, 🍋 lemon juice, 🧂 ginger, 🌶️ red pepper flakes, 🧄 garlic, 🧂 cinnamon, 🧂 cloves, and 🧂 salt. Stir everything together and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. This helps the sugar draw out the juices and flavors.
Cook the Jam:
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often. As the tomatoes break down, use a potato masher to crush them for a smoother texture, or leave them chunky if you prefer. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer, stirring frequently, for 45–60 minutes. The jam will thicken and become glossy as the liquid cooks off. To test for doneness, place a spoonful on a cold plate—if it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s ready!
Sterilize the Jars:
While the jam is cooking, sterilize your 🫙 canning jars and lids by boiling them in a large pot of water for at least 10 minutes. Keep the jars hot until you’re ready to fill them.
Fill the Jars:
Carefully ladle the hot tomato jam into the hot, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Use a clean knife or chopstick to remove any air bubbles by gently running it around the inside edge of the jar. Wipe the rims with a clean, damp cloth.
Seal and Process:
Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until fingertip tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a good seal. When done, carefully remove the jars and let them cool on a towel. Listen for the satisfying “pop” as the jars seal!
Store and Enjoy:
Once cool, check the seals by pressing the center of each lid—if it doesn’t pop back, you’re good! Store your 🫙 tomato jam in a cool, dark place. Let it sit for at least a week to let the flavors meld. Once opened, keep it in the fridge.
Serving Ideas:
This spiced tomato jam is delicious on 🥪 sandwiches, with 🧀 cheese boards, or as a sweet and savory glaze for 🍗 grilled meats. Its rich, tangy, and gently spiced flavor will add a gourmet touch to any meal!
