Sweet from green tomatoes

Green Tomato Jam: A Treasure from the Garden

If you are looking for a jam recipe that will enrich your autumn table, you have come to the right place! Green tomato jam is not only a delight but also a wonderful way to preserve the fresh taste of summer vegetables. This traditional recipe, full of flavor, will transport you to times when housewives filled their pantries with goodies. Here’s how you can prepare this delicious jam, step by step.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 70 minutes
- Total time: 100 minutes
- Servings: 5 jars of 375g

Necessary Ingredients
- 1.5 kg green tomatoes (peeled)
- 1 kg sugar
- 750 ml water
- 1 vial of vanilla essence
- 1 large lemon (juice)
- 1 teaspoon green food coloring (optional)

Necessary Utensils
- A pot of 4-5 liters
- Stainless steel or metal strainer
- A wooden spoon
- 375g jars (5 pieces)
- A knife and a cutting board

Step by Step

1. Preparing the green tomatoes
Start by washing the green tomatoes well under cold running water. Then, cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Make sure to remove the seeds, as they can affect the final texture of the jam.

2. Blanching the green tomatoes
Fill a 4-5 liter pot halfway with water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, use the strainer to add the green tomatoes for blanching. Let them sit in boiling water for 10 minutes. This process will help soften the tomatoes and remove the skin, resulting in a smoother jam.

3. Cooling the green tomatoes
Remove the tomatoes with the strainer and place them under cold running water. This method will stop the cooking process and help retain the vibrant color. Once cooled, let them drain well.

4. Preparing the syrup
In the same pot, add 750 ml of water, 1 kg of sugar, and the vial of vanilla essence. Place the pot on the stove and stir occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves. Wait until the syrup starts to boil and thicken. It should have a slightly viscous consistency.

5. Adding the green tomatoes
When the syrup is ready, peel the tomatoes, then add them to the pot along with the lemon juice. The lemon juice will not only enhance the flavors but will also help preserve the jam. Let everything boil for 60-70 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Don’t forget to remove the foam that forms on the surface.

6. Coloring the jam
About 5 minutes before the jam is done, you can add the green food coloring if you choose to use it. This will give a vibrant hue to your jam, making it even more appealing.

7. Jarring the jam
While the jam is boiling, prepare the jars. Wash them well and dry them. When the jam has thickened sufficiently, pour it hot into the prepared jars, seal them tightly, and place them in a warm spot, wrapped in blankets, until the next day. This process will ensure a good seal.

8. Labeling and storing
Once completely cooled, label the jars with the preparation date and store them in the pantry. Green tomato jam can be enjoyed on a slice of toast or as a filling for pastries.

Tips and Tricks
- Choosing the tomatoes: Select firm green tomatoes with a uniform color. These will provide a tastier and more aromatic jam.
- Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you like a less sweet jam, try reducing the sugar by 200-300g.
- Variations: For a more exotic flavor, you can add a few cloves or a stick of cinnamon during boiling.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of 100g of green tomato jam contains approximately 250 calories. It is a good source of carbohydrates and can add a note of energy to your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the jam be preserved?
Yes, if the jars are sealed correctly, the jam will keep well for a year.
- Can the jam be thickened if it doesn't set?
If the jam hasn’t set enough, you can boil it a bit longer, adding some pectin if necessary.

Delicious Combinations
Green tomato jam pairs perfectly with soft cheeses, on a crispy tart or as a filling for pancakes. You can also enjoy it alongside a warm tea or a refreshing lemonade.

Try this green tomato jam recipe and enjoy the flavors of autumn, preserved with love and passion! Enjoy your meal!