Tomato Jam Delight is a unique and delectable concoction that transforms common kitchen ingredients into an extraordinary jam. With a hint of smoky paprika and a subtle sweet and salty balance, this jam is perfect for adding a gourmet touch to your meals.
Most of these ingredients are common kitchen staples. However, the cumin and mustard seeds might not be readily available in every home. These spices can be found in the ethnic food aisle of most supermarkets. They add a wonderful depth of flavor to the jam, so it's worth seeking them out.
Key Ingredients for Tomato Jam Delight
Cumin seeds: These are tiny seeds that bring a warm, earthy flavor to the jam.
Mustard seeds: They add a subtle spicy-sweet flavor that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
Olive oil: It's used to sauté the onions and spices, adding a smoothness to the jam.
Onion: It adds a savory depth to the jam.
Garlic: It gives a strong, pungent flavor that's essential for this recipe.
Smoked paprika: It enhances the smoky flavor in the jam.
Red wine vinegar: It adds acidity to balance the sweetness.
Roma tomatoes: They are the base of the jam, adding a sweet and tangy flavor.
Brown sugar: It enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Salt: It enhances all the other flavors in the jam.
Black pepper: It adds a bit of heat to the jam.
One reader, Ailee Conger says:
This tomato jam delight recipe is a game-changer! The combination of spices and tomatoes creates a burst of flavor that's both sweet and tangy. It's perfect as a spread or a dip. The process was simple, and the end result was absolutely delicious. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Tomato Jam Delight Recipe
How to toast the spice seeds: Toast the cumin and mustard seeds in a medium-sized dry skillet over medium heat until aromatic and beginning to crackle and pop, about 6 minutes.
How to cook the onions and garlic: Add olive oil to the skillet with the spices. After 1 minute, add the onions, garlic, and paprika. Sauté the onions for about 10 minutes until they are soft, oily, and red. Then, add red wine vinegar and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
How to pulse the tomatoes and onions: Core, halve, and de-seed the tomatoes. Put the tomatoes and the onion spice mixture into a food processor and pulse about 10 times. The finished product should be combined and uniform in shape but still have a little texture. Avoid pulsing it too much, as you don’t want it to be smooth like a sauce.
How to cook the jam: Add the tomato and onion mixture to the skillet along with the brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until almost all of the liquid has evaporated and the mixture is thick and jammy, about 15 minutes.
How to serve or store: Serve immediately or transfer to a lidded container and store in the refrigerator for 1 week. The jam can be served warm or cold and can also be frozen for up to three months.
How To Make Tomato Jam
Here’s another way to use up all those fresh summer tomatoes, make tomato jam! This will go nicely with burgers and sandwiches and even for toasts.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tspcumin seeds
- 1tspmustard seeds
- 3tbspolive oil
- 1mediumonion,sliced
- 2clovesgarlic,minced
- ¾tspsmoked paprika
- 1tspred wine vinegar
- 1½lbsroma tomatoes
- ¼cuppacked brown sugar
- ¼tspsalt
- ⅛tspfreshly ground black pepper
Instructions
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Toast the cumin and mustard seeds in medium-sized dry skillet over medium heat. Shake the pan occasionally for about 6 minutes until the seeds become aromatic and begin to crackle and pop.
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Add olive oil to the skillet with the spices. After 1 minute, add the onions, garlic, and paprika. Sauté onions for about 10 minutes. They should look soft, oily, and red.
-
Add red wine vinegar and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
-
Core, halve, and de-seed the tomatoes. Put the tomatoes and the onion spice mixture into a food processor and pulse about 10 times.
-
Add the tomato and onion mixture to the skillet along with the brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until almost all of the liquid has evaporated and the mixture is thick and jammy. This should take about 15 minutes.
-
Serve immediately or transfer to a lidded container and store in the refrigerator for 1 week. Can be served warm or cold. The jam can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition
- Calories: 47.94kcal
- Fat: 2.71g
- Saturated Fat: 0.37g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.91g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.33g
- Carbohydrates: 5.96g
- Fiber: 0.71g
- Sugar: 4.77g
- Protein: 0.55g
- Sodium: 40.15mg
- Calcium: 11.31mg
- Potassium: 123.02mg
- Iron: 0.30mg
- Vitamin A: 20.61µg
- Vitamin C: 6.47mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Tomato Jam Delight Recipe
When making your tomato jam, it's crucial to cook it until almost all of the liquid has evaporated. This will ensure your jam has the right consistency. If it's too runny, it won't spread properly and if it's too thick, it may be too sweet. The key is to keep a close eye on it during the cooking process, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Remember, the jam will also thicken slightly as it cools, so it's okay if it's a bit runnier than you'd like when you take it off the heat.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Tomato Jam Delight
Prep ahead: Chop the onions and garlic in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly pulse the tomatoes and onions, saving time and effort compared to chopping by hand.
Double the batch: Consider making a larger batch and storing the extra tomato jam in the freezer for future use.
One-pot cooking: Use a skillet for both toasting the spice seeds and cooking the jam to minimize cleanup and save time.
Organize ingredients: Pre-measure and organize all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.
Efficient stirring: Stir the jam occasionally while it cooks, allowing you to multitask and attend to other kitchen duties.
Substitute Ingredients For Tomato Jam Recipe
cumin seeds - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin can be used as a substitute for cumin seeds. It will provide the same earthy and nutty flavor, but in a powdered form.
mustard seeds - Substitute with ground mustard: Ground mustard can be used as a substitute for mustard seeds. It will provide a similar pungent and tangy flavor, but in a powdered form.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil. It has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for sautéing and roasting.
roma tomatoes - Substitute with vine-ripened tomatoes: Vine-ripened tomatoes can be used as a substitute for roma tomatoes. They have a similar sweet and tangy flavor, and are suitable for making tomato jam.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar. It has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used in the same quantity as brown sugar.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika: Regular paprika can be used as a substitute for smoked paprika. It will provide a similar color and mild heat, but without the smoky flavor.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for red wine vinegar. It has a slightly milder flavor but will still provide the acidity needed in the recipe.
Presenting Tomato Jam Delight in Style
Elevate the plating: When presenting the tomato jam delight, consider using a white, minimalist plate to allow the vibrant colors of the jam to pop and take center stage. The contrast will make the dish visually appealing and highlight the rich, deep red of the jam.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and a pop of color by garnishing the dish with a few sprigs of fresh basil or microgreens. This not only adds visual appeal but also hints at the delightful flavors within the jam.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a delicate parmesan crisp or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs. This will provide a textural contrast to the smooth jam and elevate the overall dining experience.
Artful drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to create an artful drizzle of balsamic reduction around the edge of the plate. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also complements the flavors of the tomato jam with a hint of sweetness and acidity.
Accompany with artisanal crackers: Serve the tomato jam delight with a side of carefully selected artisanal crackers. Arrange them in a visually appealing manner, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation and providing a delightful textural contrast to the jam.
Consider the vessel: Opt for a unique, handcrafted serving dish to present the tomato jam delight. A carefully chosen vessel can add an element of artistry to the presentation and elevate the overall dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Tomato Jam Delight
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's perfect for pulsing the tomatoes and onion mixture to the desired texture for the tomato jam.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's essential for toasting the cumin and mustard seeds and for cooking the onions and garlic for the tomato jam.
Storing and Freezing Tomato Jam Delight
- Allow the tomato jam to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, transfer the cooled jam to an airtight container or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- To freeze the tomato jam for longer storage:
- Spoon the cooled jam into freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers with the date and contents.
- Place the containers in the freezer, ensuring they are stored upright until the jam is fully frozen.
- Tomato jam can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen tomato jam, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, consume within 1 week.
- If you prefer to freeze the jam in smaller portions for easier thawing and use, consider using ice cube trays:
- Spoon the cooled jam into ice cube trays and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, remove the tomato jam cubes from the trays and transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- When ready to use, remove the desired number of cubes and thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
- Always use clean utensils when scooping out the jam to avoid introducing bacteria and prolonging its shelf life.
How To Reheat Tomato Jam Delight Leftovers
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover tomato jam to a saucepan and reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensure that the jam is heated evenly without burning. Stir gently to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Once the jam is heated through and reaches your desired temperature, remove it from the heat and serve immediately.
Microwave method: if you're in a hurry, you can reheat the tomato jam in the microwave. Transfer the desired amount of jam to a microwave-safe dish and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Keep a close eye on the jam to prevent it from overheating or splattering. Depending on the amount of jam and the power of your microwave, it may take 1-2 minutes to reheat thoroughly.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover tomato jam to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the jam is heated through. This method is ideal if you're reheating a large quantity of jam or if you want to keep it warm for an extended period.
Serve with complementary dishes: tomato jam pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or cheese platters. Consider reheating the jam and serving it alongside these dishes for a delightful flavor combination. The warm, slightly spicy, and sweet notes of the jam will enhance the flavors of your main course or appetizer.
Adjust the consistency: if you find that the reheated tomato jam has thickened too much, you can stir in a small amount of water, olive oil, or red wine vinegar to loosen it up. Add the liquid gradually, stirring constantly, until you reach your desired consistency. This will help maintain the jam's smooth and spreadable texture.
Interesting Fact About Tomato Jam Delight
The Tomato Jam Delight recipe is a unique way to enjoy tomatoes. It's a versatile condiment that can be used in various dishes, from sandwiches to cheese platters. It's a great way to preserve the flavors of summer tomatoes and enjoy them throughout the year.
Is Making Tomato Jam Delight at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this tomato jam delight recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of roma tomatoes and basic spices keeps the cost low, and the yield is substantial. For a household of 4 people, the approximate cost would be around $8-$10, making it an affordable and delicious addition to any meal. Rating: 9/10
Is Tomato Jam Delight Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The tomato jam delight recipe is relatively healthy, as it primarily consists of whole food ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which offer numerous health benefits. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the small amount of brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness without excessive calories.
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to minimize added sugars
- Use a low-sodium salt or reduce the amount of salt used to control sodium intake
- Increase the number of spices and herbs used, such as oregano, basil, or thyme, to boost the nutritional value and flavor profile without relying on salt or sugar
- Consider adding more vegetables to the recipe, such as bell peppers or carrots, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Serve the tomato jam with whole grain crackers or bread to incorporate more complex carbohydrates and fiber into the meal
By making these small adjustments, you can enhance the overall nutritional value of the tomato jam delight recipe while still maintaining its delightful taste and texture. The key is to strike a balance between flavor and health, ensuring that the recipe remains enjoyable and satisfying while providing essential nutrients for a well-rounded diet.
Editor's Opinion on the Tomato Jam Delight Recipe
The tomato jam delight recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The use of cumin, mustard seeds, and smoked paprika adds a depth of aromatic spices, while the red wine vinegar provides a subtle tanginess. The slow-cooked tomatoes and onions create a rich, jammy texture that is perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or as a condiment for grilled meats. This versatile jam is a wonderful addition to any culinary repertoire, and its homemade charm will impress even the most discerning palates.
Enhance Your Tomato Jam Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delightful Alternatives to Tomato Jam Delight
Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Tomato Jam Delight
Why trust this Tomato Jam Recipe:
This delightful tomato jam recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of cumin seeds and mustard seeds infuses the jam with a rich, aromatic essence, while the addition of smoked paprika lends a subtle smokiness. The use of red wine vinegar adds a touch of acidity, enhancing the overall taste. The incorporation of ripe roma tomatoes ensures a sweet and robust flavor, complemented by the natural sweetness of brown sugar. This recipe guarantees a luscious, jammy texture that can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile and trustworthy addition to any culinary repertoire.
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