Create a delicious and spicy tomato jam from your summer harvest. This simple canning recipe adds a sweet and savory kick to any dish.
Author:David Bako
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 35 minutes
Yield:Approximately 4-5 half-pint jars
Category:Condiments
Method:Canning
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and quartered
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Combine tomatoes, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño in a large pot.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes break down and release their juices, about 15-20 minutes.
Stir in sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 45-60 minutes. The jam should coat the back of a spoon.
Ladle hot jam into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
Wipe rims of jars and screw on lids and bands fingertip tight.
Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Remove jars from canner and let cool on a wire rack for 12-24 hours.
Check seals before storing.
Notes
For a smoother jam, you can pulse the cooked mixture in a food processor before simmering.
Adjust the amount of jalapeño and red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
Ensure your canning jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.