Tomato jam with lemon and cinnamon flavor

Tomato jam with lemon and cinnamon flavor

A refined jam that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the fresh notes of lemon and a touch of warmth from cinnamon can transform even the simplest meals into unforgettable moments. This tomato jam recipe is not only a wonderful way to preserve summer tomatoes but also an opportunity to add a touch of creativity to your kitchen. Whether served on a slice of fresh bread, alongside pancakes, or as a filling for pastries, this jam is sure to delight everyone.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1-2 hours
Total time: 2-2.5 hours
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:
- 3 kg of ripe tomatoes
- 1 kg of sugar
- 2 lemons
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

A bit of history

Tomato jam is a traditional, often underestimated preparation that has its origins in the art of preserving vegetables. Over time, housewives have found ingenious ways to preserve tomatoes, and adding flavors like lemon and cinnamon has given them a new dimension, transforming a simple product into a sophisticated delicacy. It is a recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia, evoking pleasant childhood memories.

Preparing the tomato jam

1. Preparing the tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes well under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are fully ripe to achieve a sweet and tasty jam. Score each tomato in a cross shape on the top and prepare a pot of boiling water. Dip the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove them with a slotted spoon and quickly transfer them to a bowl of cold water or ice cubes. This process will help to easily remove the skin.

2. Peeling the tomatoes
Once cooled, remove the skin from the tomatoes. Now, cut the tomatoes in half and pass them through a food mill or blend them with a blender to obtain a fine juice. You should get about 2-2.5 liters of tomato juice.

3. Preparing the lemons
Wash the lemons well and use a fine grater to obtain the zest, being careful to avoid the white part, which is bitter. Squeeze the juice from the lemons and keep it separate.

4. Boiling the jam
In a large pot, pour the tomato juice and add the lemon zest and juice, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix the ingredients well and place the pot over medium heat. Allow the jam to boil, stirring occasionally. Boil for 1-2 hours until the mixture thickens.

5. Testing the consistency
After about an hour of boiling, take a spoonful of the jam and place it on a plate. Let it cool slightly, then tilt the plate; if the jam does not run, it is ready. If it is too runny, leave it on the heat for a few more minutes.

6. Sterilizing the jars
While the jam is boiling, sterilize the jars. You can wash them well in hot water or place them in a preheated oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes. This step is essential to prevent contamination of the jam.

7. Bottling the jam
Once the jam is ready, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, filling them to the brim. Screw on the lids and cover the jars with a thick blanket to cool slowly. Leave them covered until the next day.

Serving suggestions

This tomato jam with lemon and cinnamon flavor is perfect to enjoy on a slice of toasted bread or on fluffy pancakes. You can also use the jam as a filling for pastries or tarts. If you want to impress, serve it alongside goat cheese or feta for a sophisticated yet simple appetizer.

Variations and useful tips

If you want to experiment, you can add other spices such as vanilla or ginger to give the jam a unique note. Also, for a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but be careful to control the final consistency.

Nutritional benefits

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants, which contribute to heart and skin health. Lemons add a boost of vitamin C, and cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and may help control blood sugar levels.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
While possible, fresh tomatoes offer a more vibrant taste and a more pleasant texture.

2. How long does the jam last?
If stored in sterilized jars, the jam can last up to a year in the pantry. Once opened, it should be consumed within a few weeks.

3. Is cinnamon necessary?
Cinnamon adds a warm flavor and complexity, but you can omit it if you prefer a simpler taste.

4. What other recipes can I try with tomatoes?
Try making tomato sauces, soups, or even homemade ketchup.

Now that you have all the necessary details and tips, all that's left is to start cooking! The tomato jam with lemon and cinnamon flavor will surely delight you and bring a touch of magic to your kitchen. Enjoy!