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Tomato jam may seem like an unexpected addition to your culinary repertoire, but once you taste it, you'll understand why it's a favorite for pairing with a variety of dishes. This rich, slightly sweet, and tangy condiment adds depth and flavor to everything from grilled meats to cheeses. The inspiration for this recipe came from a friend in Kentucky who, overwhelmed by the bounty of his cherry tomato plants, turned to making tomato jam as a way to savor the fruits of his labor. It’s a beautiful way to preserve the summer harvest, capturing the essence of ripe tomatoes, ginger, shallots, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes.
We love serving this tomato jam as an accompaniment for grilled lamb burgers or salmon—two proteins that beautifully complement its vibrant, sweet-savory profile. It’s also delicious spread on a slice of crusty bread with soft cheese, creating a perfect appetizer or light meal. Whether you're using it to elevate a savory dish or as a dip for fresh bread, this jam has endless possibilities to enhance your culinary creations.
Tomato jam is one of those delightful surprises in the kitchen—simple to make, yet bursting with complex flavors. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements works wonders with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile condiment to have on hand. Whether you’re looking to elevate a grilled dinner, add a twist to your cheese platter, or enjoy it as a topping for a hearty sandwich, this jam delivers a perfect balance of flavors. The recipe itself is incredibly straightforward, making it easy to prepare, even for those new to canning or jam-making. So, let’s dive into the steps for creating your own batch of homemade tomato jam that will surely impress.
Cherry Tomato Jam
Recipe Type:
Accoutrements
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Servings:
6
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 ounces shallots, minced
- 2 tsp. ginger, minced
- 1 tsp. garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2½ lbs. red & yellow cherry tomatoes
- 3 sprigs rosemary
- Kosher salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot, except the tomatoes and rosemary.
- Bring to a boil for 3 minutes.
- Carefully add tomatoes and reduce heat to a low simmer.
- Allow to cook for 15 minutes, gently stirring occasionally.
- Add rosemary and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until tomatoes start to pop and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Salt to taste.
- Store refrigerated for up to 1 week.
The Ultimate Pairings with Kendall-Jackson Wine
When it comes to pairing this flavorful tomato jam with wine, a bottle of Kendall-Jackson wine makes for an exquisite match. The bright acidity and fruit-forward profile of their Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay complements the tangy and sweet elements of the jam, particularly when served with grilled salmon or lamb burgers. The smooth texture of the Chardonnay balances the slight heat from the red pepper flakes, while the wine’s hints of citrus and oak pair wonderfully with the complexity of the jam.
If you're looking for a red wine option, consider Kendall-Jackson’s Vintner’s Reserve Pinot Noir. This light, fruit-driven red with soft tannins and flavors of ripe berries and subtle spice enhances the savory richness of the tomato jam, making it an ideal partner for bruschetta with soft cheese or grilled meats. Whether you’re enjoying a casual gathering or a refined dinner, pairing your tomato jam with Kendall-Jackson wine promises to elevate the flavors and create an unforgettable dining experience.
