Quick Tomato Jam
Quick Tomato Jam offers a sweet and tangy spread with fresh tomato flavor enhanced by lemon and a hint of citrus. Its vibrant taste makes it perfect for breakfast, as a condiment, or a unique addition to cheese platters, appealing to those who enjoy bold, homemade preserves with a citrus twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the peeled and chopped tomatoes with sugar for 10 minutes.
- Add sliced lemon and lemon gelatin; boil for an additional 10 minutes.
- Put the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker jam, you can boil it longer or use a food processor to blend the tomatoes before cooking. If you're out of lemon gelatin, try using another flavor or a pectin alternative for thickening. Adjust the sugar to taste, especially if using very sweet tomatoes. This jam is versatile and can be used in various dishes, such as the Beans Vinaigrette.
Serving Suggestions
This quick tomato jam pairs beautifully with cheese platters, grilled meats, or as a spread on crusty bread. It complements dishes like the Dump Fruit Salad perfectly. Consider serving it alongside charcuterie for a delightful balance of flavors. It also works well as a condiment for burgers or sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled tomato jam in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to six months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Tomato Jam contains roughly 297 calories, with 6g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (86% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used if fresh ones are not available. Drain excess liquid to avoid a runny consistency. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes will yield a brighter flavor, but canned can be a convenient alternative, especially in off-seasons.
Is it necessary to peel the tomatoes?
Peeling the tomatoes helps achieve a smoother jam texture. However, if you're short on time, you can leave the skins on, but the final product may be chunkier. Just ensure to wash the tomatoes thoroughly before use.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar if you prefer a less sweet jam. Taste the mixture while cooking and add sugar incrementally until you reach your desired sweetness. This allows for a more balanced flavor, especially if using sweeter varieties of tomatoes.
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).