There’s something utterly delightful about transforming ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary, and this Spicy Tomato Jam does just that. I discovered this culinary treasure during a leisurely weekend at home, with a basket of ripe Roma tomatoes begging to be turned into something remarkable. The blending of sweet tomatoes with a kick of red pepper flakes creates a taste that dances on your palate, bringing warmth and cheer to even the simplest of meals.
Imagine spreading this vibrant jam over a warm slice of toast, pairing it with a creamy cheese, or using it as a unique topping for your favorite grilled sandwich. Not only does this jam effortlessly elevate your dishes, but it also makes for an impressive homemade gift that family and friends will cherish. As we transition from the sun-kissed days of summer to cozy autumn evenings, this Spicy Tomato Jam is the perfect way to capture those fleeting flavors. So, let’s dive into this recipe and create a jar of goodness that you’ll be proud to share!
Why is Spicy Tomato Jam a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of sweetness and heat from ripe tomatoes and red pepper flakes delivers a taste sensation that will have your taste buds singing.
Versatile Lift: This jam is perfect for spreading on toast, enhancing grilled cheese sandwiches, or even pairing with meats, making it a must-have for any occasion.
Homemade Delight: Crafting your own jam allows you to control the sweetness and spice, ensuring it’s tailored to your preferences.
Gift-Ready Goodness: Pretty jars of this vibrant jam make thoughtful, homemade gifts for family and friends, ideal for any celebration.
Simple Preparation: With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up this delicious spread in less than an hour. Enjoy this easy recipe and impress your loved ones!
Spicy Tomato Jam Ingredients
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For the Jam Base
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Roma Tomatoes – Fresh, sweet base of the jam; other plum tomatoes can be used, but avoid high-water varieties for best results.
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Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps caramelize the tomatoes; can reduce sugar by up to ½ cup or use coconut sugar for a different flavor.
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Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity and tang to balance the jam’s sweetness; no direct substitution recommended.
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Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the jam; sea salt can be used if kosher salt is unavailable.
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For the Spicy Kick
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Red Pepper Flakes – Infuses heat; crucial for the jam’s signature spiciness; adjust quantity to taste or omit for a milder version.
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Ground Ginger – Adds warmth and a hint of spice; 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger can replace the ground version.
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Ground Cinnamon – Introduces a subtle warmth that complements the jam; no direct substitution is recommended.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re set to create a jar of Spicy Tomato Jam that will elevate any meal or make for a heartfelt gift!
How to Make Spicy Tomato Jam
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Prepare Tomatoes: Blanch the Roma tomatoes in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then quickly transfer them to an ice bath. This helps loosen the skins for easy peeling.
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Peel and Dice: Once cooled, peel the skins off, seed, and dice the tomatoes until you have about 2½-3 cups. This fresh base is key to your jam’s flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan over medium heat, mix the diced tomatoes with light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil for about 10 minutes. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, roughly 45-60 minutes, enjoying the delightful aroma along the way.
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Cool and Store: Once thickened, allow the jam to cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage jars. Ensuring it’s cooled properly will help maintain its texture.
Optional: Drizzle a little balsamic vinegar on top for a zesty finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Tomato Jam creations are fantastic for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prep the tomatoes by blanching, peeling, and dicing them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepared tomatoes in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mix all the ingredients except the cooked jam up to 3 days ahead; just ensure you refrigerate this mixture as well. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Spicy Tomato Jam, combine the prepped ingredients in a saucepan, cook until thickened, and cool before storing. This way, you’ll have rich, delicious jam with minimal effort on the day of serving!
What to Serve with Spicy Tomato Jam?
Elevate your meals with delightful pairings that will make your taste buds dance.
- Creamy Cheese: A spread of goat cheese or cream cheese creates a delicious contrast, enhancing the sweetness and spiciness.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The molten, buttery goodness of grilled cheese pairs exceptionally well, while the jam adds a refreshing twist to every bite.
- Toasted Bread: Slather on a warm slice of crusty bread for a simple yet satisfying appetizer, perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
- Charcuterie Board: This jam adds a pop of color and flavor to any charcuterie board, harmonizing wonderfully with cured meats and olives.
- Savory Tacos: Use it as a vibrant topping for your favorite tacos, adding a sweet and spicy kick that’s sure to impress.
- Breakfast Scrambles: Swirl it into scrambled eggs for a delightful breakfast that brings warmth and flavor to your mornings.
- Burgers: Top your burgers with this jam for an unexpected burst of flavor that will take your BBQ to the next level.
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle over roasted veggies to infuse a rich sweetness that complements their natural earthiness.
- Sparkling Wine: Pair with a refreshing sparkling wine to balance the sweetness of the jam while enhancing the overall dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Tomato Jam
- Room Temperature: Once opened, Spicy Tomato Jam should not be kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain its quality.
- Fridge: Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Ensure it’s tightly sealed to preserve freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the jam in a freezer-safe container or silicone mold for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to use.
- Reheating: If you prefer a warm spread, gently reheat the jam in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Spicy Tomato Jam
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Choose Ripe Tomatoes: The key to delicious Spicy Tomato Jam is using fully ripe tomatoes. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor.
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Adjust Spice Level: Start with a smaller amount of red pepper flakes if you’re sensitive to heat. You can always add more during cooking for extra kick!
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Mind the Cooking Time: Don’t rush the simmering process. Allow the jam to thicken gradually—this ensures the flavors meld beautifully without burning.
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Mix and Match Ingredients: Feel free to experiment! Try adding herbs like thyme or basil to create your signature version of Spicy Tomato Jam.
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Perfect for Canning: If you plan to preserve your jam, follow safe canning practices to extend shelf life and enjoy it longer.
Spicy Tomato Jam Variations
Feel free to customize your Spicy Tomato Jam to suit your taste and creativity!
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Heirloom Tomatoes: Use different heirloom varieties for a robust flavor and beautiful color contrast in your jam.
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Honey Sweetened: Replace light brown sugar with an equal amount of honey for a natural sweetness and a floral note.
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Garlic Infused: Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves during the simmer process for an aromatic, savory twist.
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Smoky Spice: Incorporate smoked paprika for a distinct flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with meats and cheeses.
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Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped fresh basil or thyme just before cooling for a fresh herbal lift that brightens the jam.
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Citrus Zest: Add zest from a lemon or orange during cooking to introduce a subtle citrus brightness that complements the tomatoes.
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Bourbon Kick: For an adult twist, stir in a splash of bourbon during the last few minutes of simmering for depth and complexity.
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Spicy Variations: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños for a bolder heat for those who crave a fiery experience.
Spicy Tomato Jam Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for Spicy Tomato Jam?
Absolutely! I recommend using ripe Roma tomatoes for their sweetness and low water content. You can substitute with other plum tomatoes, but avoid high-water varieties like beefsteak. Ripe tomatoes provide the best flavor, so choose tomatoes that are firm, fragrant, and without dark spots.
How long can I store Spicy Tomato Jam in the refrigerator?
You can store your Spicy Tomato Jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to maintain its freshness. If you notice any signs of mold or off-odors, it’s best to discard it.
Can I freeze Spicy Tomato Jam, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Spicy Tomato Jam! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays for easy portioning. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat.
What should I do if my Spicy Tomato Jam is too runny?
If you find your jam is too runny after cooking, don’t worry! You can continue simmering it over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Keep in mind that the jam will thicken further as it cools, so patience is key. If it’s still too liquidy after cooling, you might consider adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water) to help achieve the right thickness while cooking.
Is Spicy Tomato Jam safe for my pets?
While Spicy Tomato Jam is delicious for us, it’s best to keep it away from pets. The spices, especially red pepper flakes, can be irritating to animals. Always ensure they have access to safe foods specifically made for their diet.
What can I use Spicy Tomato Jam for besides spreading on toast?
Very! The versatility of Spicy Tomato Jam makes it a culinary delight. Use it as a topping for grilled cheeses, burgers, or even as a flavorful addition to scrambled eggs. You can also pair it with cheese for a delightful appetizer or incorporate it into sauces for a sweet and spicy kick!
Spicy Tomato Jam: Your New Favorite Homemade Spread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blanch the Roma tomatoes in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath.
- Peel the skins off, seed, and dice the tomatoes until you have about 2½-3 cups.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, mix diced tomatoes with light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil for about 10 minutes, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes.
- Allow jam to cool to room temperature before transferring to storage jars.