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Spicy Tomato Jam Recipe

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4.5 from 110 reviews

A rich and flavorful Tomato Jam recipe that transforms fresh roma tomatoes with warm spices, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar into a thick, sweet, and tangy preserve. Perfect as a condiment or complement to various dishes, this jam is simmered slowly to develop deep, complex flavors and a luscious jammy texture.

Ingredients

Tomato Jam Ingredients

  • 5 pounds fresh roma tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 2 cups brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large dutch oven or heavy bottom pot, combine the chopped roma tomatoes, fresh grated ginger, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mixing all ingredients thoroughly will ensure an even flavor profile throughout the jam.
  2. Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This sets the cooking process and helps dissolve the sugar and meld the spices.
  3. Simmer Gently: Once boiling, reduce the heat to achieve a gentle simmer with occasional bubbling. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 hours, stirring frequently to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom and burning. This slow simmer allows the liquid to reduce and the flavors to concentrate.
  4. Check Consistency: The jam is ready when most of the liquid has evaporated, resulting in a dark, thick, jammy texture. Test by dragging a spoon through the middle — the gap should refill slowly, indicating proper thickness.
  5. Cool and Store: Remove the pot from heat and let the jam cool to room temperature. Use immediately as a spread or condiment, or transfer it into jars for storage. For longer storage, refrigerate, freeze, or process jars using proper canning methods to preserve the jam safely.

Notes

  • Stir frequently during simmering to avoid burning the jam on the pot’s bottom.
  • If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
  • For a smoother texture, you can blend the jam slightly after cooking.
  • Use sterilized jars if you intend to can the jam for long-term shelf storage.
  • This jam pairs wonderfully with cheese boards, sandwiches, grilled meats, or as a glaze.