Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs. ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. ground cloves
Special equipment needed:
- Large saucepan
- Immersion blender or food processor
- Mason jars with lids
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped tomatoes, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
5. Using an immersion blender or food processor, blend the mixture until smooth.
6. Pour the jam into sterilized mason jars and let cool completely.
7. Store the jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of jam
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 tbsp.):
- Calories: 30
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- White sugar can be used instead of brown sugar.
- Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used instead of balsamic vinegar.
- Ground allspice can be used instead of ground cloves.
Variations:
- Add chopped onions or garlic for a savory twist.
- Use cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes for a different flavor.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added depth.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Stir the mixture occasionally while simmering to prevent burning.
- Sterilize the mason jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes before use.
Storage instructions:
Store the jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
The jam can be served cold or at room temperature.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small bowl or jar with a spoon.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or thyme on top of the jam.
Pairings:
- Serve with crackers or bread as an appetizer.
- Use as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
- Spread on a sandwich or burger.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled corn
- Mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too thin, continue simmering until it thickens.
- If the jam is too thick, add a splash of water or vinegar to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to sterilize the mason jars before use to prevent bacteria growth.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Tomato jam has been a popular condiment in the southern United States for many years.
Flavor profiles:
The jam has a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of spice.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the jam as a condiment or topping for a variety of dishes.
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