Discover the magic of tomato jam and bring it to your table
Tomato Marmalade - A Tasty Treat That Surprises
When you hear marmalade, most people think of the classics – strawberry, apricot, or perhaps currant. However, the world of homemade preserves is much more diverse. In recent years, an unconventional but intriguing tomato marmalade has been gaining its spot in the limelight. The idea of a sweet spread made from tomatoes might sound a bit unusual, but trust me, it’s a taste experience worth trying.
Tomatoes are not just a base for sauces or a salad ingredient. When combined with fruit, sugar, and spices, they become a delicacy that works great not only on bread but also as an accompaniment to cheese or meat. Its flavor is sweet and sour, mildly spicy, and refreshing at the same time – and that’s what makes it a hidden culinary gem.
Why Try Tomato Marmalade?
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to several health benefits – from immune support to the prevention of certain chronic diseases. They also contain B vitamins, vitamin C, and potassium. And when you add fruits like apples or oranges, you get an exceptional combination of flavors and nutrients.
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It’s also good to clarify terms – although the word "marmalade" is often used in common language, officially it can only be called that if it’s made from citrus fruits. Everything else, according to legislation, is "jam" or "preserves." But at home, in our own kitchen, we can enjoy tomato and apple marmalade or perhaps apricot marmalade with tomatoes without worrying about formalities.
Basic Recipe for Tomato Marmalade
The foundation of any delicious tomato marmalade is quality ingredients. Tomatoes should be ripe, sweet, and full of flavor – ideally from your garden or a farmers' market. The best choices are smaller varieties like cherry or date tomatoes, which naturally have a higher sugar content. However, if you have an abundance of classic tomatoes, don’t hesitate – you can also make excellent jam from them.
Simple Recipe for Tomato Marmalade:
- 1 kg ripe tomatoes
- 500 g sugar (can be replaced with cane sugar)
- juice of one lemon
- a piece of grated ginger (optional)
- a pinch of salt
- optionally, a gelling agent (e.g., Gelfix)
Scald the tomatoes with hot water, peel, and cut them into smaller pieces. Place them in a pot, add sugar, lemon juice, ginger, and salt. Cook on low heat for about 40 minutes until the mixture thickens. Then blend it as desired or leave it chunky. Fill sterilized jars, turn them upside down, and let them cool.
This basic version is a great starting point for further flavor experiments. And there are plenty of them.
Unexpected Combinations - Apples, Oranges, and Apricots
When tomato marmalade is combined with fruit, the flavor moves to a whole new dimension. Tomatoes and apples make a harmonious pair – the apple adds softness and freshness, while the tomatoes provide depth. The result is a sweet and sour marmalade that pairs excellently with goat cheese or white bread.
Inspiring Recipe – Tomato and Apple Marmalade:
- 500 g tomatoes
- 500 g apples (preferably a tart variety)
- 600 g sugar
- juice of 2 lemons
- a bit of cinnamon or vanilla bean to taste
The process is similar to the basic recipe – cut everything, mix, cook until thickened, and fill into jars. A jar of this marmalade makes a delightful and original edible gift.
Another great combination is tomato and orange marmalade. Citrus notes add zest, freshness, and a slight bitterness that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes perfectly. For lovers of Mediterranean cuisine, it’s an irresistible flavor.
And for those who love traditional flavors with a modern twist, there’s apricot marmalade with tomatoes. Apricots and tomatoes have a similar color and consistency, but they complement each other beautifully in taste – the apricot is fruity and tangy, while the tomato adds body and umami. This marmalade is perfect not only for breakfast but also as an accompaniment to roasted meats and pâtés.
Tomato Marmalade on the Plate - How to Use It
You might be wondering where to use such an unconventional marmalade. The answer might surprise you – almost everywhere. Spread it on toasted bread with a slice of brie cheese, serve it with meat rolls, or use it as a base for homemade burgers. It also works great in marinades or as a glaze for grilled vegetables.
Even in the kitchen of renowned chef Gordon Ramsay, tomato marmalade appears as an accompaniment to grilled pork tenderloin. "The acidity of the tomatoes combined with the sweetness of the sugar and spices creates a perfect contrast to the meat," says Ramsay in his cookbook.
Besides that, it’s excellent for seasoning roasted squash, as a pizza sauce base, or for flavoring soups. Just a teaspoon and the dish takes on a whole new character.
Homemade Canning as a Return to Traditions
When you make your own marmalade, not only do you control the ingredients, but you also return to the roots of home cooking. In a time when more people are interested in a sustainable and healthy lifestyle, home canning is a great step in the right direction.
You don’t need expensive equipment. Just a few jars, a pot, and a desire to experiment. Plus, you can use up excesses from the garden or inexpensive seasonal fruits and vegetables. Tomato marmalade is not only delicious but also eco-friendly – and that’s exactly what zero waste is about.
Like other homemade preserves, you can store tomato marmalade for several months if properly canned. And when you add a nice label to the jar, you have an original and personal gift that will delight friends and family.
Where to Find Inspiration and More Recipes?
If the idea of tomato marmalade has intrigued you, we definitely recommend checking out international blogs that focus on fermentation, canning, and unique flavor combinations. A great source of inspiration is the website The Kitchn, where you’ll find not only recipes but also tips for using these delights in everyday cooking.
From Czech sources, you can follow blogs focused on seasonal cuisine and permaculture, where less traditional recipes from available ingredients often appear. In social media communities, countless variations are shared – from tomato and basil marmalade, to spicy versions with chili, to luxurious variants with champagne.
The magic of tomato marmalade lies in its willingness to step outside usual flavors. It opens the door to new combinations that will delight both the curious cook and the gourmet at home. Whether you choose the classic version or venture into experimenting with apples, oranges, or apricots, one thing is certain – this marmalade with character will win you over.
