Tomato Jam Recipes for Canning: Sweet and Savory Delights
Tomato jam is a versatile and delicious condiment that can elevate any dish. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile is perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or using as a glaze for meats and vegetables. And, the best part is that you can easily make your own tomato jam at home and preserve it for future enjoyment through canning.
Here are two delicious tomato jam recipes for canning:
Classic Sweet Tomato Jam
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the tomatoes: Wash and chop the tomatoes. Remove any seeds or core.
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine the tomatoes, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and reaches the desired consistency.
- Test for setting point: Use a chilled spoon to scoop a small amount of jam onto a plate. If the jam sets up quickly, it's ready to be canned.
- Can the jam: Prepare your canning jars and lids according to your preferred method (water bath or pressure canning). Fill the jars with hot jam, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims and seal with lids.
- Process the jars: Process the filled jars according to the instructions for your chosen canning method.
- Let cool: Allow the jars to cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place.
Tips:
- For a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup.
- Add other spices like ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom for a more complex flavor.
- Experiment with different types of tomatoes for variations in sweetness and acidity.
Savory Tomato Jam with Balsamic and Herbs
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the tomatoes: Wash and chop the tomatoes. Remove any seeds or core.
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine the tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, basil, thyme, garlic, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and reached the desired consistency.
- Remove herbs: After simmering, remove the basil and thyme leaves from the jam using a slotted spoon or strainer.
- Can the jam: Prepare your canning jars and lids according to your preferred method (water bath or pressure canning). Fill the jars with hot jam, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims and seal with lids.
- Process the jars: Process the filled jars according to the instructions for your chosen canning method.
- Let cool: Allow the jars to cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place.
Tips:
- This jam pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even cheese and crackers.
- You can use a combination of fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or sage for a unique flavor profile.
- Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar and brown sugar to your preference.
Enjoy Your Homemade Tomato Jam!
Homemade tomato jam is a delicious and rewarding project. Enjoy it on its own or use it to elevate your favorite dishes. You can impress your friends and family with your culinary skills and homemade gifts!
