Tomato & Strawberry Jam (Tto-ttal-jaem)
Tomato & Strawberry Jam (Tto-ttal-jaem)
A Delightful Blend: Tomato and Fresh Strawberry Jam!
Discover the magic of homemade jam with this unique combination of tomatoes and fresh strawberries! The robust flavor of tomatoes is beautifully softened by the fragrant sweetness of strawberries, making it a hit even with children who might be hesitant about tomatoes. Enjoy this delightful spread!
Ingredients- 2kg large, ripe tomatoes
- 800g fresh strawberries
- 2kg white granulated sugar
- 3-4 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by selecting large, ripe tomatoes. Wash them thoroughly under running water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Remove the core from each tomato and cut them into 4 to 8 wedges. Choosing tomatoes with fewer seeds and more flesh will yield a better jam.
Step 2
Gently wash the fresh strawberries and remove their green tops. Pat them dry. Place both the prepared tomatoes and strawberries into a large, deep pot. Add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat and cook for 15 minutes. The fruits will release plenty of their own juice, so no additional water is needed. After boiling, let the mixture cool slightly, then blend it until smooth. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer it to a regular blender. The key is to achieve a smooth puree.
Step 3
While you can proceed with the pureed mixture, for a smoother jam without seeds or skins, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. This step ensures a velvety texture. Once you have your smooth fruit base, it’s time to add the sugar.
Step 4
Add the sugar to the fruit puree and stir until it is completely dissolved. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat to high and cook for 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. After 30 minutes, reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook for another 1 hour and 30 minutes. You don’t need to stir constantly during this longer simmering period, but make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot occasionally to prevent any burning and ensure even cooking.
Step 5
After a total of 1 hour and 30 minutes of simmering, when the jam has reached a desirable consistency, stir in the lemon juice. The lemon juice enhances the overall flavor profile and acts as a natural preservative. Taste the jam and add more lemon juice if you prefer a tangier flavor, or omit it if you like.
Step 6
The final consistency of the jam is a matter of preference. I intentionally cooked mine slightly thinner. This is because the jam will thicken further as it cools in the refrigerator. Also, making it slightly runnier allows for versatility; you can use it not only as a spread but also to mix into milk for a delicious drink. If you prefer a thicker jam, continue to simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
