Tomato Chilli Jam – A Classic Condiment Bursting with Flavor

I’ll never forget the first time I tried Tomato Chilli Jam. It was during a potluck dinner at my friend’s house, and the moment I took a bite, my taste buds were instantly transported to a flavor explosion. The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy left me wanting more. From that day on, I knew I had to learn how to make this incredible condiment myself.

Why This Tomato Chilli Jam Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Tomato Chilli Jam

What sets this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe apart is the careful blend of ingredients and the unique cooking technique. By simmering the ripe tomatoes, fiery chili peppers, and aromatic spices together, the flavors meld seamlessly, creating a jam that’s both complex and utterly delectable. The addition of apple cider vinegar provides a subtle tanginess that cuts through the sweetness, while the smoked paprika lends a hint of earthy depth.

The key to achieving that perfect, spreadable texture is in the slow, gentle cooking process. As the mixture simmers, the natural pectin in the tomatoes thickens the jam, resulting in a luscious, glossy consistency that’s perfect for slathering on everything from crackers to grilled meats.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

The success of this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe lies in the quality of its ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the star players:

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, diced: These are the foundation of the jam, providing the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
• 3 red chili peppers, seeded and finely chopped: The heat and fruity notes of the chili peppers are what give this jam its signature kick.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetener helps to balance the tartness of the tomatoes and vinegar, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: The vinegar adds a tangy note that brightens the entire dish and helps to preserve the jam.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: This earthy spice enhances the depth of flavor and complements the other seasonings.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: With its citrusy, floral notes, coriander complements the chili peppers beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice lends a subtle smoky undertone that elevates the overall complexity of the jam.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A touch of warmth from the cinnamon balances the heat and acidity.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: The slight bitterness of the cloves provides a nice counterpoint to the sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors, making them pop on your palate.

Step-by-Step Tomato Chilli Jam Instructions

Preparing Your Tomato Chilli Jam

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 35 minutes, this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe is a breeze to make. You’ll need a large saucepan or Dutch oven, a sharp knife, and a wooden spoon or spatula to get started.

1- Begin by dicing the 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Make sure to remove any tough cores or blemishes, and chop the tomatoes into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. This will help them break down more quickly during the cooking process.

2- Next, seed and finely chop the 3 red chili peppers. Be careful to avoid touching your eyes or face, as the oils from the chili peppers can be quite potent.

3- In the saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped chili peppers, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

4- Once simmering, add the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Stir well to incorporate all the spices, and continue to cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to a spreadable consistency.

5- As the jam cooks, use a wooden spoon or spatula to mash the tomatoes against the sides of the pan, helping to break them down and release their natural pectin. This will contribute to the jam’s luscious texture.

6- Once the Tomato Chilli Jam has reached your desired thickness, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before transferring it to clean jars or an airtight container. This delectable jam can be served immediately or stored for later use.

Pro Tips for Success

• For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. They’ll be sweeter and more flavorful than out-of-season varieties.
• Adjust the amount of chili peppers to suit your spice preference. If you like it extra fiery, add an extra pepper or two.
• Be sure to stir the jam frequently during the cooking process to prevent scorching or sticking.
• If the jam seems too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of water or more vinegar.
• For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the jam before canning or serving.
• Consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as red wine or sherry, to create unique flavor variations.

Serving and Storing Your Tomato Chilli Jam

Perfect Pairings for Tomato Chilli Jam

This Tomato Chilli Jam is a versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. Serve it as a dip with crackers or crudités for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It also makes a fantastic topping for grilled chicken, pork, or salmon, adding a burst of sweet-and-spicy flavor.

For a simple yet delicious meal, spread the jam on crusty bread or crostini and top with crumbled feta or goat cheese. It’s also a wonderful accompaniment to roasted vegetables, such as brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes.

When it comes to beverages, this Tomato Chilli Jam pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, a refreshing gin and tonic, or a robust red wine. The possibilities are endless! This recipe makes approximately 6 servings, so you can share it with friends and family or enjoy it throughout the week.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Tomato Chilli Jam has a relatively long shelf life, making it a great option for meal prepping or stocking your pantry. Once the jam has cooled, transfer it to sterilized jars or an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

For longer-term storage, the jam can be frozen for up to 6 months. Simply spoon the cooled jam into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of headspace to allow for expansion. When ready to use, thaw the jam in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before serving.

To reheat the jam, transfer it to a small saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. The jam can be enjoyed straight from the jar, or you can use it as a glaze, spread, or condiment in a variety of dishes.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Tomato Chilli Jam

Creative Tomato Chilli Jam Variations

While this recipe is already a delicious classic, there are plenty of ways to put a personal spin on Tomato Chilli Jam. For a sweeter version, try adding a touch of honey or brown sugar. Looking to amp up the heat? Swap in hotter chili peppers, such as habaneros or ghost peppers.

You can also experiment with different herb and spice combinations. A dash of smoked paprika and a sprinkle of dried oregano can evoke Mediterranean flavors, while a blend of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder lends a Southwestern flair.

For a seasonal twist, consider using a mix of fresh and roasted tomatoes, or incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this versatile jam.

Making Tomato Chilli Jam Diet-Friendly

Tomato Chilli Jam can easily be adapted to suit a variety of dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure that all the ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

To make a vegan-friendly Tomato Chilli Jam, substitute the granulated sugar with an equal amount of coconut sugar or agave nectar. You can also swap the apple cider vinegar for white wine vinegar or rice vinegar.

For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, replace the sugar with a sugar-free sweetener, such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You may need to adjust the amount to achieve the desired sweetness level.

Regardless of your dietary preferences, this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe can be tailored to suit your needs, allowing you to enjoy its bold, flavorful goodness without compromise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar besides apple cider vinegar?
A: Absolutely! You can experiment with other types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar, to create unique flavor variations. Just be sure to use the same 1/2 cup measurement.

Q: How long does the Tomato Chilli Jam take to make?
A: This recipe has a total time of 50 minutes, with a prep time of 15 minutes and a cook time of 35 minutes. The long, slow simmer is crucial for developing the jam’s thick, spreadable texture.

Q: Can I store the Tomato Chilli Jam in the freezer?
A: Yes, you can! The jam will keep in the freezer for up to 6 months. Be sure to transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of headspace for expansion.

Q: How much Tomato Chilli Jam does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings of Tomato Chilli Jam. The exact amount may vary depending on how long you cook the jam and how thick you prefer the final consistency.

Q: What if my Tomato Chilli Jam doesn’t thicken up enough?
A: If the jam isn’t reaching your desired thickness, try continuing to simmer it for a little longer, mashing the tomatoes against the sides of the pan to release more pectin. You can also stir in a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder to help it thicken up.

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Conclusion

This Tomato Chilli Jam is a true flavor sensation that will elevate your culinary game. With its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes, it’s a versatile condiment that can transform a simple meal into something extraordinary. Whether you’re serving it as a dip, a topping, or a spread, this recipe is sure to become a new household favorite.

I encourage you to give this Tomato Chilli Jam a try and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag me so I can see your delicious handiwork. Happy cooking!