Old-Time Tomato Preserves
Old-Time Tomato Preserves offers a sweet, tangy jam with hints of citrus, perfect for spreading or gifting. Suits those who love homemade, fruit-infused preserves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and quarter the tomatoes.
- Cover the tomatoes with sugar and let stand overnight.
- Drain off the syrup from the tomatoes.
- Heat the syrup to a boil.
- Cook until the syrup spins a thread (232°F).
- Add the tomatoes, sliced orange, and lemon to the syrup.
- Cook over low heat until the tomatoes are transparent.
- Seal the hot preserves in sterilized glasses.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use firm, ripe tomatoes to prevent mushiness. If you're short on time, you can skip peeling the tomatoes, especially if you prefer a chunkier texture. Consider using half the sugar if you prefer a less sweet preserve, or substitute with a sugar alternative like agave syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. Always ensure your jars are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
These tomato preserves are delightful spread on toast or biscuits for breakfast. They also pair beautifully with cheese platters, adding a sweet contrast to savory cheeses. Try serving them alongside a charcuterie board or as a topping for grilled meats, enhancing flavors with a touch of sweetness. For a unique twist, drizzle over vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of tomato preserves in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the preserves in the refrigerator and consume within two weeks. To reheat, simply scoop out the desired amount and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Time Tomato Preserves contains roughly 240 calories, with 4g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (77% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar to account for the sweetness of canned varieties. The cooking time may also need slight adjustments since canned tomatoes are already soft.
How long will these preserves last?
When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, homemade tomato preserves can last up to a year. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within two weeks. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I add spices to the preserves?
Absolutely! Adding spices like cinnamon, cloves, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile of your tomato preserves. Experiment with spices during the cooking process, but start with small amounts to ensure the flavors remain balanced.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).