This Tomato Ginger Jam is a savory and sweet recipe, which is made with fresh tomatoes and minced ginger. It’s the perfect condiment for cheese boards or sandwiches, ready in about 30 minutes.
Jump to RecipeTomato Ginger Jam Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. Vegetable Oil
- 1/2 Red Onion, Finely Diced
- 1 piece (1-inch Size) Ginger, Peeled And Minced
- 2 cups Fresh Tomatoes, Chopped
- 1/3 cup Sugar
- 3 Tbsp. Rice Vinegar
- 1 pinch Cinnamon
- 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes
- Salt To Taste
How To Make Tomato Ginger Jam
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, add the oil and the finely diced red onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are soft but not browned. Add the minced ginger and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the tomatoes: Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pan and increase the heat to medium. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring often, as the tomatoes begin to break down.
- Simmer the jam: Add the sugar, vinegar, a pinch of cinnamon, and the optional red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture cook for 10 minutes, stirring often, until it has thickened to a jam-like consistency. Remove the pan from the heat, season to taste with salt, and let it cool.

Recipe Tips
- How to get the right consistency? The jam will thicken as it cools. It’s ready when it can coat the back of a spoon and a line drawn through it with your finger holds its shape for a moment. If it’s too thin, simply simmer it for a few more minutes.
- Can I make this spicier? Yes. For more heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a finely minced fresh red chile along with the ginger.
- Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, you can use one 14.5-ounce can of drained, diced tomatoes as a substitute for the fresh tomatoes. The flavor will be slightly different.
- How to get a smooth jam? If you prefer a smoother, less chunky jam, you can use an immersion blender to briefly pulse the finished jam directly in the pot.
What To Serve With Tomato Ginger Jam
This versatile sweet and savory jam is a fantastic accompaniment to many dishes.
- On a cheese board with sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese
- As a spread on a grilled cheese or turkey sandwich
- As a glaze for roasted chicken or pork
- Served alongside savory scones or biscuits
How To Store Tomato Ginger Jam
- Refrigerate: Store the completely cooled jam in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks.
Tomato Ginger Jam Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 40 kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 0g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
It has a wonderful balance of sweet and savory. The sugar is balanced by the acidity of the tomatoes and the vinegar, with a warm spice from the ginger.
This usually means it just needs to be cooked for a little longer. Simmering allows the excess liquid to evaporate and the natural pectins in the fruit to help it set. Remember, it will thicken significantly as it cools.
This is a quick refrigerator jam recipe and is not formulated or tested for long-term water bath canning. It should be stored in the refrigerator.
Try More Recipes:
Tomato Ginger Jam Recipe
Course: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy1
servings10
minutes25
minutes40
kcalA quick and easy savory jam with a perfect balance of sweet tomatoes, warm ginger, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
2 Tbsp. Vegetable Oil
1/2 Red Onion, Finely Diced
1 (1-inch) piece Ginger, minced
2 cups Fresh Tomatoes, Chopped
1/3 cup Sugar
3 Tbsp. Rice Vinegar
Pinch of Cinnamon & Red Pepper Flakes
Salt To Taste
Directions
- In a saucepan, sauté the diced red onion in oil over medium-low heat for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add the minced ginger and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 8 minutes.
- Stir in the sugar, vinegar, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer on low for 10 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture has thickened.
- Season with salt to taste and let it cool before serving.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes.
- Don’t let the onions brown, as this will change the color and flavor of the final jam.
- This is a “principal recipe” that can be easily adapted with different spices like a pinch of cumin or coriander.
- The jam will thicken considerably as it cools.