Tomato Chilli Jam: A Spicy Treat for Your Senses
Tomato chilli jam is a delectable condiment that tantalizes the taste buds with its sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. Made from a harmonious blend of ripe tomatoes, fiery chilli peppers, and aromatic spices, this versatile jam can elevate any dish from simple to extraordinary.
Ingredients:
- 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2-3 red chilli peppers, finely chopped (adjust heat level to taste)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) white vinegar
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the tomatoes and chilli peppers: Wash and dice the tomatoes, removing any hard cores. Finely chop the chilli peppers, making sure to remove the seeds if you prefer less heat.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes and chilli peppers: Stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped chilli peppers. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
4. Add vinegar, sugar, and spices: Stir in the white vinegar, granulated sugar, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt to taste. Bring the mixture back to a simmer.
5. Simmer and thicken: Continue simmering the jam for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and reduced to a spreadable consistency.
6. Test taste and adjust seasoning: Taste the jam and adjust the seasonings as desired. Add more sugar for sweetness, chilli peppers for heat, or salt for balance.
7. Canning or storage: If you wish to preserve the jam, sterilize jars and lids according to manufacturer's instructions. Fill the jars with the hot jam, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for jars up to 16 ounces, or 15 minutes for larger jars. Alternatively, you can store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
Tomato chilli jam is a versatile condiment that can enhance a wide range of culinary creations. Here are some serving ideas:
- Spread on toast, crackers, or bread as an appetizer or snack
- Glaze grilled or roasted meats and poultry
- Stir into pasta or rice dishes for a spicy twist
- Add to curries, stews, and soups for extra depth of flavor
- Serve as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, samosas, or pakoras
Health Benefits:
Beyond its captivating flavors, tomato chilli jam boasts several health benefits:
- Antioxidants: Tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants, including lycopene, which has been linked to reduced cancer risk.
- Vitamin C: Chilli peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune system health and collagen production.
- Capsaicin: The heat from chilli peppers comes from capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Conclusion:
Tomato chilli jam is a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds and offers a plethora of health benefits. With its sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, this versatile condiment can transform any dish from mundane to exceptional. Whether you spread it on toast, glaze meats, or stir it into your favorite recipes, tomato chilli jam is sure to ignite your taste buds and leave you craving more.