Introduction
Homemade tomato jam is a true culinary treasure that can transform any dish, from breakfasts to sophisticated dinners. Its combination of sweet and slightly acidic flavors makes it extremely versatile, ideal to accompany both sweet and savory dishes. In this article, we present you a perfect recipe to prepare tomato jam at home and take your culinary creations to another level.
Ingredients
To make delicious homemade tomato jam, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 kg of ripe tomatoes
– 500 g of sugar
– One lemon’s juice
– Optional: a vanilla bean or a pinch of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor
Preparation
Step 1: Preparation of the tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes well and make a small cross-shaped incision at the base of each one. Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for about 30 seconds and then immerse them in cold water. This will make the peeling process easier. Once peeled, cut them into quarters and remove the seeds.
Step 2: Initial Cooking
Place the cut tomatoes in a large pot and add the sugar and lemon juice. If you wish, you can also add a vanilla bean or a pinch of cinnamon to give it an extra touch of flavor.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The key is to allow the mixture to slowly reduce and thicken, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. It is important not to rush to ensure that the flavors develop fully.
Step 4: Consistency Check
To check if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate and run a finger through the middle. If the jam wrinkles slightly and does not come back together, it is done. If it’s too runny, continue cooking and test again after a few minutes.
Step 5: Packaging
Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the pot from the heat. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Close the jars tightly and place them upside down for a few minutes to create a vacuum that will help preserve the jam for longer.
Versatility and enjoyment
Tomato jam is incredibly versatile. You can use it to accompany cheeses, especially strong varieties such as goat cheese or blue cheese. It’s also great on toast with a little butter for a different breakfast. In savory dishes, try using it as a glaze for meats, especially pork or chicken, or even as a topping on gourmet burgers. Making homemade tomato jam is not only a way to take advantage of ripe tomatoes, but also a way to experiment with new flavors in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a delicious side dish that will enhance any dish. Try this recipe and discover how this jam can take your dishes to another level, surprising your guests and delighting your family with its unique flavor.
