Sweet & Savory Homemade Tomato Jam (Water Bath Canning Recipe)

This sweet and savory tomato jam is packed with fresh tomatoes, warm spices, and a tangy kick of vinegar. Perfect for topping toast, cheese boards, burgers, and more, this easy water bath canning recipe preserves summer’s flavor so you can enjoy it all year long.

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If you’ve never tried tomato jam before, you’re in for a treat! This sweet and savory spread takes fresh garden tomatoes and transforms them into a rich, spiced jam that pairs beautifully with crackers, cheese, grilled meats, and sandwiches. It’s the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and a little bit of spice. The best part is, it’s shelf-stable once it has been water bath canned.

Whether you’re swimming in ripe summer tomatoes from the garden or stocking up at the farmers market, this homemade tomato jam recipe is a must-try for your pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Jam

• Sweet and savory flavor – The sugar, warm spices, and chili flakes make this jam irresistible.
• Perfect for preserving summer – Store jars in your pantry to enjoy that fresh tomato flavor all year long.
• Versatile uses – Serve it with cheese boards, spread it on toast, or add a dollop to burgers and grilled chicken.
• Simple ingredients – No pectin, no fuss, just fresh produce and pantry staples.

Ingredients for Tomato Jam

You only need a handful of basic ingredients to make this delicious tomato jam.

• 6 pounds fresh tomatoes (any variety works, but Roma or paste tomatoes will give a thicker jam)
• 2 large onions, diced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar
• ¾ cup water
• 3 tablespoons bottled lemon juice
• 3 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon ground cloves
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper

Step-by-Step: How to Make Tomato Jam

1. Prep the tomatoes – Wash, core, and roughly chop your tomatoes. No need to peel, the skins will cook down and add extra flavor.
2. Combine ingredients – In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, add all the ingredients. Stir to combine.
3. Cook it down – Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring often. Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered until thickened, about 1½–2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Check consistency – The jam should be thick and glossy. You can test it by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate, if it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s ready.
5. Prepare jars – While the jam cooks, wash jars, lids, and bands in hot soapy water. Keep jars warm until ready to fill.
6. Fill jars – Ladle hot tomato jam into hot jars, leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles, wipe rims clean, and place lids and bands on finger-tight.
7. Process in a water bath – Place jars in a boiling water canner. Process pint or half-pint jars for 20 minutes (adjust for altitude).
8. Cool and store – Remove jars and let them cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours. Check seals, label, and store in a cool, dark place for up to 18 months.

Tips for the Best Tomato Jam

• Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes – Overripe tomatoes work great here.
• Adjust spice to taste – Add more chili flakes for extra heat or reduce for a milder jam.
• Stir often near the end – As the jam thickens, it can scorch easily, so keep it moving.

How to Use Tomato Jam

This sweet and savory tomato jam is endlessly versatile:

• Spread on toast with cream cheese.
• Serve alongside sharp cheddar or goat cheese.
• Top burgers, grilled chicken, or pork.
• Add a spoonful to roasted vegetables.
• Stir into pasta or grain bowls for a flavor boost.

Storage & Shelf Life

Properly canned jars will last up to 18 months in a cool, dark pantry. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2–3 weeks.

Safety Note

This recipe uses bottled lemon juice and vinegar to ensure proper acidity for safe water bath canning. Do not alter the vinegar or lemon juice amounts. For more information on safe home canning methods, see the National Center for Home Food Preservation’s guidelines on canning tomato products.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

If you loved this sweet and savory tomato jam, here are a few more recipes you might enjoy making next:

• Homemade Salsa Verde with Canning Instructions– A zesty green salsa that’s perfect for tacos, chips, and more.
• How to Can Roasted Tomato Soup – Cozy, flavorful, and perfect for stocking your pantry.
• Ultimate Guide to Canned Jalapeños (Not Pickled) – Add a little heat to your homemade meals.
• Canning Sloppy Joe Starter Sauce – A ready-to-use pantry staple for quick weeknight dinners.

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