I’ll never forget the first time I made Tomato Chilli Jam. It was a few years ago, and I had an abundance of ripe tomatoes from my garden. I didn’t want them to go to waste, so I started searching for recipes that could use them up. That’s when I stumbled upon this incredible Tomato Chilli Jam recipe, and my life has never been the same.
The moment I took that first bite, I was hooked. The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew I had found a new staple in my kitchen. From that day on, Tomato Chilli Jam has become a regular in my pantry, and I can’t imagine my life without it.
Table of Contents
Why This Tomato Chilli Jam Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Tomato Chilli Jam
What makes this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe so special is the attention to detail in the ingredient selection and the cooking process. The key is striking the right balance between the sweetness of the tomatoes, the heat of the jalapeños, and the tanginess of the apple cider vinegar. By carefully adjusting the amounts of each component, this recipe creates a jam that is both complex and incredibly delicious.
The secret lies in the slow simmering process. As the Tomato Chilli Jam cooks, the flavors meld together, creating a depth of flavor that you just can’t achieve with a quick stir-and-serve approach. The long, gentle cooking time allows the natural sugars in the tomatoes to caramelize, resulting in a jam that is rich, thick, and utterly irresistible.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The success of this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe relies on the quality of the ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are the foundation of this jam. The more flavor-packed the tomatoes, the better the end result will be.
- 3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped: These peppers add the perfect amount of heat to balance the sweetness. Seeding them helps control the level of spice.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The sugar helps to tame the acidity of the tomatoes and create that signature jammy texture.
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: The vinegar provides the essential tang that makes this Tomato Chilli Jam so irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A touch of salt enhances all the other flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy note that complements the chili flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A hint of cinnamon lends a subtle complexity to the jam, making it truly unique.
Step-by-Step Tomato Chilli Jam Instructions
Preparing Your Tomato Chilli Jam
With a total time of just 35 minutes, this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe is quick and easy to make. All you’ll need is a large saucepan, a sharp knife, and a few basic kitchen tools.
1- Start by chopping the 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes into small, even pieces. This will help them cook down quickly and evenly.
2- Next, seed and finely chop the 3 jalapeño peppers. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid any skin irritation.
3- In the saucepan, combine the chopped tomatoes, jalapeños, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
4- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency.
5- Once the Tomato Chilli Jam has reached the perfect texture, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
6- Transfer the jam to airtight containers or jars, and allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Enjoy your homemade Tomato Chilli Jam on everything from crackers and cheese to burgers and grilled meats!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Tomato Chilli Jam turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Use a mix of different tomato varieties for the best flavor. A combination of heirloom, beefsteak, and cherry tomatoes will give your jam a delightful depth of flavor.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to suit your spice preference. If you like it extra spicy, add an extra pepper or two. For a milder version, use fewer jalapeños.
- Don’t be afraid to let the jam simmer for a bit longer if you want a thicker, more concentrated flavor. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
- Taste the jam as it’s cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a touch more sugar, vinegar, or spices to get the balance just right for your palate.
Serving and Storing Your Tomato Chilli Jam
Perfect Pairings for Tomato Chilli Jam
This Tomato Chilli Jam is a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With 12 servings, it’s the perfect accompaniment for a cheese and cracker platter, a delicious topping for grilled chicken or pork, or a flavorful spread for sandwiches and burgers.
For a truly indulgent experience, try serving the Tomato Chilli Jam alongside a selection of aged cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, or brie. The sweet and spicy flavors of the jam will perfectly complement the rich, creamy cheeses. And don’t forget the crackers or crusty bread for dipping!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe is that it keeps really well. Once the jam has cooled completely, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the jam for up to 6 months.
To freeze, simply transfer the cooled jam to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of headspace for expansion. When you’re ready to use the frozen jam, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then enjoy it as you normally would.
The Tomato Chilli Jam also makes an excellent make-ahead condiment. You can prepare a batch in advance and have it on hand for quick and easy entertaining or for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes throughout the week.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Tomato Chilli Jam
Creative Tomato Chilli Jam Variations
While this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe is already a showstopper, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try swapping out the jalapeños for a different type of chili pepper, like a serrano or a habanero, for a different level of heat. Or, experiment with adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
You could also play around with the spices, using smoked paprika or a blend of Mexican-inspired spices for a more robust flavor profile. And for a seasonal twist, try incorporating roasted garlic or fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the mix.
Making Tomato Chilli Jam Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe can be easily adapted to fit your needs. For a gluten-free version, simply make sure to use gluten-free ingredients, such as tamari instead of soy sauce.
To make a vegan-friendly jam, simply omit the honey and use a plant-based sweetener, like maple syrup or agave nectar, instead. You can also substitute the granulated sugar with a low-calorie sweetener, like stevia or erythritol, for a reduced-sugar option.
No matter your dietary needs, this Tomato Chilli Jam can be tailored to suit your preferences while still delivering the same incredible flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute a different type of vinegar for the apple cider vinegar?
A: Yes, you can use a different vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile of the Tomato Chilli Jam.
Q: How long does it take to prepare the Tomato Chilli Jam?
A: The total time for this recipe is 35 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I store the Tomato Chilli Jam in the freezer?
A: Absolutely! The jam can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Q: How much Tomato Chilli Jam does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 12 servings of Tomato Chilli Jam.
Q: What should I do if my Tomato Chilli Jam isn’t thickening as expected?
A: If the jam isn’t thickening to your desired consistency, try simmering it for a few more minutes, stirring frequently, to allow more of the liquid to evaporate and the jam to become thicker.
Tomato Chilli Jam
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This Tomato Chilli Jam is a quick and easy condiment that packs a delightful punch of sweet and spicy flavors. Made with juicy tomatoes, fiery chili peppers, and a touch of sugar, it’s the perfect topping for crackers, crostini, meats, and more.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped tomatoes, jalapeño peppers, sugar, vinegar, salt, cumin, and cinnamon.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the Tomato Chilli Jam cool slightly.
5. Transfer the jam to sterilized jars or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
– For a spicier jam, leave some or all of the jalapeño seeds.
– The jam can be canned for longer-term storage using proper canning techniques.
– Experiment with different types of chili peppers to adjust the heat level.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dips, Boards & Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Global
Conclusion
This Tomato Chilli Jam is truly a game-changer in the world of condiments. With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, it’s a versatile addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer with crackers and cheese or using it to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes, this jam is sure to become a new household staple.
I can’t wait for you to try this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe and experience the same joy I did when I first tasted it. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think! I’m confident it will quickly become your new go-to.
