Tomato Jam

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclosure policy.

Tomato jam is a simple and flavorful summer recipe that uses fresh tomatoes and savory spices to create a tangy, slightly sweet, and versatile topping, spread, or dip. A perfect way to use up those summer tomatoes, this recipe comes together in a single pot and is super simple to make!

Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox!

NOTE: By saving this recipe, you agree to join our weekly recipes newsletter.

What is Tomato Jam

Tomato jam is a slightly sweet condiment made by cooking down fresh tomatoes with some sugar and spices until it’s thick and sticky. The resulting spread has a beautiful tomato flavour with a sweet and tangy finish.

How to use Tomato Jam

Tomato jam makes a great topping for crackers or toast, as well as a dip for use on charcuterie boards, for as a spread for sandwiches. This sweet and savory jam works well on avocado toast, paired with goat cheese, or with cured meats like salami.

Variations to Try

This tomato is very versatile and can be jazzed up with a variety of different flavors, great for entertaining. Here are some must try variations.

Cowboy Tomato Jam – has a slight kick to it thanks to the addition of jalapenos and cumin!

Bacon tomato jam – try adding some finely chopped cooked bacon to the tomatoes while you are cooking them down for a meaty smokey flavor.

Try adding some flavorful summer herbs – fresh basil, oregano, or parsley can give this jam a herby twist and fresh flavors.

Spicy Tomato Jam – adding a bit of cayenne pepper to your jam can amp up the heat and get your tastebuds dancing! Any of your favorite hot peppers can be added as well.

Tips for making Tomato Jam

Bring the mixture to a solid boil before turning down the heat. This will help the jam thicken as it cools.
Use only the outer portion of the tomato and discard the tough core. It will give your jam a much more pleasant flavor and texture.
Use the freshest ripest tomatoes you can find, it will for sure make the best summer tomato jam!
For a more concentrated flavour, simmer the jam for longer over low heat, just make sure you don’t burn it!

Best way to Store Tomato Jam

This jam will last up to 10 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

If you go through the process of properly canning your tomato jam, it can last for up to 1 year as long as it remains sealed. Once opened the jam should be used within 10 days.

Try my Marinated Cucumbers, Onions and Tomatoes!

Tomato Jam FAQs

Does tomato jam need pectin?

Tomato jam does not need pectin to thicken unlike other jams. Tomatoes contain a natural pectin that will help thicken your tomato jam.

Why is my tomato jam not thickening?

If your tomato jam won’t thicken, you may need to add additional sugar to the recipe in order for it to thicken to your liking. Make sure you get the jam boiling or the sugar will not become thick enough for jam.

What are the best varieties of tomatoes to use for this jam recipe?

Any variety of tomato can work for jam. It’s best to stick to what are commonly referred to as “eating” or “canning varieties” as they will have the best flavor and texture for tomato jam. Roma, grape, and heirloom varieties work very well for jam.

What is the difference between tomato jam and tomato chutney?

While very similar, a tomato chutney will not taste as sweet as a tomato jam. Chutney is generally more savory while jam has a sweet taste to it.

Pin this recipe now to remember it later

Pin Recipe

Tomato Jam

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 30

Total Time: 40

Servings:

Easy tomato jam is perfect as a dip, spread, or topping for party platters, appetizers, or a snack. Super simple to make, and a great way to use up those summer tomatoes, this jam is sweet and jammy with a savory finish.

No ratings yet

Review Recipe

Ingredients

2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and coarsely chopped, ( I used roma tomatoes)
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne

Follow Sweet Pea’s Kitchen

Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox!

NOTE: By saving this recipe, you agree to join our weekly recipes newsletter.

Instructions

Place a large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat and add the chopped tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, salt and cayenne. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Once boiling reduce the heat and simmer until the mixture has thickened. Stir occasionally, scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.
Remove the pot from the heat and allow the jam to cool before transferring to an airtight container for storage.