Green Tomato Jam

Name: Green Tomato Jam
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 8 jars
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 kg green tomatoes (washed and chopped); 1 kg granulated sugar; 1 unit lemon (zest and juice); 1 tbsp grated ginger (fresh); 1 tsp vanilla extract

80 min 8 jars Medium

All Recipes

Green Tomato Jam

A sweet and tangy green tomato jam perfect for toast or as a unique condiment.

Prep

20 min

Cook

60 min

Total

80 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Green Tomato Jam is a delightful way to utilize those unripe tomatoes from your garden. This jam combines the tartness of green tomatoes with sugar and a hint of lemon zest, resulting in a unique preserve that’s both sweet and tangy. Perfect as a spread on toast or as a condiment for cheese and charcuterie, this jam brings a touch of sophistication to any dish. Making your own jam also means you can control the sweetness and flavour balance to your liking.

Instructions

Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash and chop the green tomatoes into small pieces. Remove any stems.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife to make the chopping easier.

Cook the Tomatoes

In a large pot, combine the chopped tomatoes and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out the juices.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

Add Flavourings

Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated ginger to the pot. Stir to combine.

Pro tip: Adjust the ginger to taste if you prefer more spice.

Simmer the Jam

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 50–60 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Pro tip: The jam should coat the back of a spoon when ready.

Add Vanilla

Stir in the vanilla extract and remove the pot from heat.

Pro tip: Vanilla adds a subtle depth to the flavour.

Jar the Jam

Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1 cm (1/2 inch) headspace. Seal immediately.

Pro tip: Use a funnel to avoid spills and burns.

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Tips & Tricks

Use underripe green tomatoes for the best flavour.
Ensure jars are sterilized to prevent spoilage.
Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a less sweet jam.
Allow the jam to cool completely before storing.

Frequently Asked Questions

recette avec tomates vertes

Green Tomato Jam is a great recipe to use up surplus green tomatoes and create a unique preserve.

How long does it take to make green tomato jam?

It takes about 80 minutes in total, including 20 minutes for preparation and 60 minutes for cooking.

What can I use green tomato jam for?

Green Tomato Jam is excellent on toast, as a cheese platter accompaniment, or as a glaze for meats.

How do I store green tomato jam?

Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet jam, but it may affect the setting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Green Tomato Jam with warm scones, on a cheese platter, or even as a glaze for meats. Its versatility will surprise you. Store the jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. This jam also makes a thoughtful homemade gift, especially when presented in a beautifully labelled jar.