Name: Homemade Tomato Chilli Jam: Sweet and Spicy Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 medium Shallot (Adds savory depth; can substitute with onion for a similar flavor.); 2 cloves Garlic (Provides aromatic flavor; use garlic powder as a substitute if fresh is unavailable.); 4 whole Red Chillies (Adds heat and spiciness; deseed for less intensity or use jalapeños for a milder version.); 500 grams Cherry Tomatoes (Forms the jam base, offering sweetness and texture; regular tomatoes can be used but may alter consistency.); 1 tablespoon Lime Zest (Adds a refreshing citrus note; lemon zest can be used as a substitute if needed.); 200 grams Light Brown Sugar; 120 ml Red Wine Vinegar (Provides acidity to balance sweetness; apple cider vinegar is a great alternative for a different twist.)

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As I sliced through the vibrant red tomatoes, I couldn’t help but recall that blissful afternoon spent preserving memories with my grandmother in her bustling kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe for Tomato Chilli Jam that effortlessly combines sweet and spicy flavors, making it a versatile condiment perfect for brightening up your meals. This jam is quick to whip up, allowing you to embrace homemade goodness without the fuss of complicated steps. Plus, it’s all gluten-free and vegetarian, giving you the freedom to customize to your taste! Whether dolloped on a cheese board, spread on toasted bread, or tucked into a gift jar for friends, this spicy-sweet jam is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Curious about what variations you might try to make it your own? Let’s dive in!

Why Is Tomato Chilli Jam So Special?

Bold flavor: A perfect mix of spicy and sweet, this jam tantalizes your taste buds and elevates any meal.
Easy to make: With just a few steps, you’ll have a gourmet condiment without the hassle.
Customizable: Feel free to adapt it with various ingredients like ginger or even curry powder for a unique twist!
Perfect for gifting: Package it in beautiful jars, and you’ll have a heartfelt present for your friends and family.
Versatile usage: Spread it on sandwiches, pair it with cheese, or use it as a glaze for grilled meats—it’s delicious every time!
Healthy choice: Enjoy a homemade, gluten-free condiment brimming with fresh ingredients and goodness, unlike store-bought options.

Tomato Chilli Jam Ingredients

For the Jam Base

Shallot – Adds savory depth; can substitute with onion for a similar flavor.
Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; use garlic powder as a substitute if fresh is unavailable.
Red Chillies – Adds heat and spiciness; deseed for less intensity or use jalapeños for a milder version.
Cherry Tomatoes – Forms the jam base, offering sweetness and texture; regular tomatoes can be used but may alter consistency.

For Flavoring

Lime Zest – Adds a refreshing citrus note; lemon zest can be used as a substitute if needed.
Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and aids in jam consistency; white sugar can be used as a substitute but may slightly change the flavor.
Red Wine Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance sweetness; apple cider vinegar is a great alternative for a different twist.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tomato Chilli Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Purée
Begin by blending the shallot, garlic, red chillies, and half of the cherry tomatoes in a food processor until you achieve a smooth purée. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Ensure the mixture is vibrant and well-combined, as it forms the flavorful base of your Tomato Chilli Jam.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining diced cherry tomatoes, the purée, lime zest, light brown sugar, and red wine vinegar. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients thoroughly, taking care to incorporate the sugar evenly. This step is crucial for balancing the sweet and spicy flavors in your jam.

Step 3: Heat and Dissolve
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and cook the mixture, stirring regularly, until the sugar has completely dissolved, approximately 5-7 minutes. The jam will begin to bubble gently, signaling that the flavors are melding together beautifully. Keep an eye on it to prevent any scorching.

Step 4: Boil the Mixture
Once the sugar is dissolved, increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Allow it to boil for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You’ll notice the mixture thickening and deepening in color, indicating that it’s nearing the perfect consistency for your Tomato Chilli Jam.

Step 5: Check for Doneness
After boiling, check the density of the jam. It should be thick and gooey, ideally reaching a temperature of around 105°C/220°F. If it’s not thick enough, continue to boil for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring consistently until it reaches the desired consistency. This step is vital for ensuring your Tomato Chilli Jam sets well.

Step 6: Cool and Store
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the Tomato Chilli Jam to cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the jam into sterilized jars while it’s still warm but manageable, using a funnel to avoid spills. Seal the jars and let them cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to preserve the flavors.

Tomato Chilli Jam Variations

Feel free to play around with flavors and textures—this jam can accommodate a whole world of delicious changes!

Dairy-Free: Substitute any cheese pairing with nut-based cheeses for a creamy vegan option.
Heat It Up: For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or switch to habanero chillies. The warmth from these peppers will leave a memorable impression!
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh basil or cilantro for a fragrant twist that brightens every bite. Just be sure to chop them finely before incorporating!
Smoky Flavor: A teaspoon of smoked paprika adds a delightful smoky background to your jam. This little addition creates a captivating complexity.
Fruit Fusion: Blend in diced peaches or mangoes for a fruity variation that introduces a new level of sweetness and texture. It’s a harmonious dance of flavors!
Vinegar Swap: Use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a richer, sweeter profile. This change can tie beautifully with savory dishes.
Zingy Garlic: For garlic lovers, roasting the garlic before blending will offer a sweeter, more mellow flavor that’s irresistibly delicious.
Curry Kick: Join the spices of Indian cuisine by adding a teaspoon of curry powder. This will impart an exotic twist that surprises and delights the senses!

The beauty of this Tomato Chilli Jam recipe is its flexibility. For even more flavorful inspirations, check out my Tomato Herby Bean salad or consider spicing up your meals with my Jamaican Curry Chicken. Let your culinary creativity shine!

How to Store and Freeze Tomato Chilli Jam

Fridge: Store your Tomato Chilli Jam in a sterilized jar, and it will keep fresh for up to 3 months in the refrigerator. Seal it tightly to maintain flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the jam in airtight containers or freezer bags, where it will last for up to a year. Thaw in the fridge before use.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm jam, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of water if it seems too thick.

Canned Storage: If processed properly, your Tomato Chilli Jam can last up to a year unopened on the pantry shelf. Be sure to follow canning guidelines for best results.

What to Serve with Spicy-Sweet Tomato and Chilli Jam

Imagine spreading a luscious, spicy-sweet concoction on warm bread and savoring the burst of flavors that elevate your meal experience.

Creamy Goat Cheese: The tanginess and creaminess of goat cheese contrast beautifully with the heat from the jam, creating a delightful balance.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A simple yet satisfying combination, melting cheese meets a pop of flavor that takes a classic dish to another level.
Charcuterie Board: Enhance your cheese and cold cuts by adding this jam; its sweet and spicy notes invigorate every bite and delight your guests.
Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle the jam over roasted veggies for a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, making them irresistible.
Baked Brie: Top a wheel of warm brie with your Tomato Chilli Jam for a show-stopping appetizer. The oozing cheese pairs wonderful with the jam’s boldness.
BBQ Ribs: Use the jam as a glaze for your grilled or baked ribs; its flavors meld together seamlessly, enhancing the smoky richness of the meat.
Cornbread: Slathering this jam on freshly baked cornbread offers the perfect sweet-and-spicy combo to accompany a hearty meal.
Sliced Apples: For a refreshing snack, serve the jam alongside sliced apples; the crisp fruit adds a delightful contrast to its rich flavors.
Sparkling Rose: This wine’s bright acidity and berry notes complement the jam wonderfully, enhancing the overall gourmet experience.
Chocolate Tart: Pairing this jam with a rich chocolate dessert creates an unexpected yet delightful yin-yang of flavors, perfect for fancy gatherings.

Expert Tips for Tomato Chilli Jam

Sterilize Jars: Ensure your jars are thoroughly sterilized to prolong shelf life and avoid spoilage. Simply boiling them in water works wonders.
Stir Frequently: Stir often during the last stages of cooking to prevent sticking and burning, ensuring a smooth and luscious Tomato Chilli Jam.
Adjust Consistency: If the jam turns out too runny, boil it down further or add pectin to achieve that perfect thick and spreadable texture.
Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust sweetness or heat levels as you cook, making the Tomato Chilli Jam perfectly suited to your palate.
Cool Before Storing: Allow the jam to cool slightly in the pot before transferring to jars. This reduces the risk of condensation inside your jars.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy-Sweet Tomato and Chilli Jam make-ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the jam up to 24 hours in advance by following all the steps until the cooling phase. Once you’ve transferred the jam into sterilized jars, seal them and refrigerate. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and ensure it’s just as delicious when it’s time to serve. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove the jars from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before opening. This way, you’ll have a scrumptious condiment ready for cheese boards or sandwiches with minimal effort!

Tomato Chilli Jam Recipe FAQs

What ripeness level should the tomatoes be for making Tomato Chilli Jam?
Absolutely! Choose ripe cherry tomatoes that are vibrant and slightly soft to the touch. Overripe tomatoes with dark spots may affect the jam’s flavor and texture, so select firm, fresh tomatoes for the best results.

How should I store my Tomato Chilli Jam, and how long will it last?
To keep your Tomato Chilli Jam fresh, store it in a sterilized jar in the fridge for up to 3 months. Always seal it tightly, as this will help maintain its delicious flavor. If you plan to enjoy it beyond that, consider freezing it instead!

Can I freeze Tomato Chilli Jam, and what’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze your Tomato Chilli Jam! First, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will last up to a year in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat.

What if my Tomato Chilli Jam is too runny?
Very importantly, if your jam doesn’t thicken, you can fix it! Return it to a saucepan and boil it down further for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently. If you prefer a quicker solution, add a teaspoon of pectin, mixing well and returning to a boil until thickened.

Is Tomato Chilli Jam suitable for special diets, such as gluten-free or for people with allergies?
Absolutely! This Tomato Chilli Jam is gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making it enjoyable for a wide range of diets. However, always check for allergies, as the ingredients include garlic and red chillies, which may not be suitable for everyone.