Tomato jam

Tomato Jam - A Surprising Delicacy

Tomato jam may seem like an unusual recipe at first glance, but for those who have already explored the world of vegetable jams (chutney), this recipe will quickly become a favorite. With a balanced taste between sweet and savory, tomato jam is perfect for accompanying a variety of dishes or even enjoyed on a slice of fresh bread. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2-3 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 6 jars of 300g

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 kg of plum tomatoes (or cherry, Roma)
- 1 bunch of fresh basil (finely chopped)
- 2 sticks of cinnamon
- 2 large red onions, finely chopped
- 330 g granulated sugar
- 110 g brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander
- A pinch of cumin
- 25 ml apple cider vinegar
- 25 ml balsamic vinegar
- Juice of 1 lemon

Steps to follow:

1. Preparing the tomatoes: Start by scoring each tomato at the top in a cross shape. This technique will make peeling easier and help release the juice. Then, place the tomatoes in a pot of boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, or until the skin starts to peel off.

2. Cooling the tomatoes: Once the skin has peeled off, transfer the tomatoes to a bowl of cold water or ice. This process is called "shocking" and helps stop the cooking process.

3. Peeling and chopping: After they have cooled, peel the tomatoes and chop them finely. Place them in a large pot where you will cook them.

4. Adding the ingredients: Add the chopped onions, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, coriander, cumin, apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice to the pot with the tomatoes. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Boiling: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer slowly for 2-3 hours. It is essential to stir frequently, as the jam can stick to the bottom of the pot.

6. Checking the consistency: The jam is ready when it has thickened and significantly reduced the liquid. You can check the consistency by placing a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate – if it holds its shape, it is ready.

7. Sterilizing the jars: While the jam is cooling, you can sterilize the jars. Wash them well, then place them in a preheated oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes.

8. Packing the jam: When the jam is ready, pour it hot into the sterilized jars, filling them to the brim. Place a stick of cinnamon in each jar for an extra flavor boost.

9. Sealing the jars: Close the jars tightly and turn them upside down for 5 minutes. This technique helps create a vacuum and keeps the jam fresh.

10. Cooling and storing: After 5 minutes, turn the jars back upright and let them cool completely under a towel or between blankets for 2 days. Then, store them in a pantry, away from sunlight.

Serving suggestions:

Tomato jam can be served on toasted bread, alongside avocado drizzled with lemon, or as a topping for bruschetta. It is also an excellent choice for flavoring sauces or adding a special note to pizza. If you desire a spicier taste, feel free to add finely chopped chili pepper to the mixture.

Useful tips:

- Tomatoes: Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for a richer jam. Cherry or Roma tomatoes are ideal due to their texture.
- Sugar: Brown sugar adds a note of caramelization, while granulated sugar helps achieve the desired texture.
- Preservation: The jam stores well in sterilized jars and can be a perfect gourmet gift for holidays.

Nutritional benefits:

Tomato jam is not only delicious but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially C and A), and minerals. Basil adds antimicrobial properties, while cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory effects.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables, such as peppers or zucchini, to create unique combinations.

2. How can I reduce the cooking time?
Use a pressure cooker to reduce the cooking time, but make sure to respect the proportions of the ingredients.

3. Is it necessary to add vinegar?
Vinegar helps preserve the jam and gives it a distinct taste, but you can adjust the amount according to your preferences.

4. How long does the jam last?
If stored correctly in sterilized jars, tomato jam can last up to 1 year.

Possible variations:

- Spiced jam: Add a few black peppercorns or cardamom for a more complex flavor.
- Citrus jam: Including lemon or orange zest can add a fresh note.
- Spicy jam: Add chili peppers or chili flakes for an extra flavor boost.

This tomato jam recipe is more than just a simple dish – it is a culinary experience that will delight your senses and bring a touch of innovation to your kitchen. Don't hesitate to try and personalize the recipe to your taste. Enjoy every spoonful and savor the authentic flavor of this delicious jam!

 Ingredients: 2kg of plum tomatoes (or cherry, Roma) 1 bunch of fresh basil (chopped finely) 2 sticks of cinnamon 2 large red onions, finely chopped 330g granulated sugar 110g brown sugar 1 teaspoon of salt 1/2 teaspoon coriander a pinch of cumin 25ml apple cider vinegar 25ml balsamic vinegar juice of 1 lemon

 Tags:  canned food for winter vegetable sauce tomato sauce canned vegetables