This deep red tomato jam will be so pretty and festive on your table, made in the slow cooker using tomatoes, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cloves.

To make Tomato Jam in your slow cooker or crockpot, simply chop your tomatoes, combine them with all other ingredients, and let them cook on high for 12 to 15 hours until you get that thick, jam-like consistency.

I should add a touch of green as a garnish—it’ll be perfect! This recipe will definitely add a unique touch to your next gathering.

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Can I Use Any Type of Tomato for This Tomato Jam Recipe?

Absolutely, you can use any type of tomato, but for the best results in your Tomato Jam, go for meaty varieties like Roma or San Marzano. They have less water content and more flesh, which means thicker, richer jam without cooking it for ages.

Slow Cooker Tomato Jam Ingredients

• 4 lbs (about 1.8 kg) of meaty tomatoes
• 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) of brown sugar
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) of lemon juice
• 1 tsp (5 ml) of cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) of ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) to 1 tsp (5 ml) of salt, adjusted to taste
• 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) of ground ginger, or alternatively, fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) of red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

How To Make Slow Cooker Tomato Jam

1. Prepare Your Tomatoes: Start by washing and coring your tomatoes. If you want a finer texture, chop them into smaller pieces or quarters.
2. Texture Choices: For a chunkier jam, finely chop the tomatoes by hand or give them a few quick pulses in a food processor. If you prefer a smoother jam, pulse the tomatoes in a food processor until they’re nicely mashed.
3. Mix in the Slow Cooker: Transfer your chopped or pulsed tomatoes into a slow cooker set on high.
4. Add Flavors: Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle the salt, brown sugar, and all the spices over the tomatoes.
5. Cook the Jam: Let everything cook on high for 12 to 15 hours. You’re aiming for a thick, jam-like consistency.
6. Keep an Eye on It: In the final hours, keep a close watch. As the liquid reduces, there’s a risk of burning the mixture.
7. Storage: Once done, ladle the hot jam into jars. You can keep it in the refrigerator, freeze it for longer storage, or seal the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes for shelf storage.

Recipe Tips

• Stir Occasionally: Give your tomato jam a gentle stir every now and then. It helps distribute the heat evenly and prevents any ingredients from sticking to the bottom and playing hide and seek.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If your tomatoes are super tart or you just fancy a sweeter jam, don’t hesitate to throw in a bit more brown sugar. It’s all about hitting that sweet spot!
• Spice It Up: Add a dash more cinnamon or throw in some nutmeg for a warm, spicy twist that makes your taste buds do a little dance.

Recipe Variations

• Add Fresh Herbs: Before the last hour of cooking, stir in some chopped basil or thyme. It’s like a little herb party in your jam, and everyone’s invited!
• Fruity Flavors: Mix in some chopped peaches or apricots for a fruity take that brings a sunny vibe to your kitchen, no matter the weather.
• Citrus Twist: Swap out half the lemon juice for orange or lime juice. It’s a simple switch that adds a whole new layer of zing to your jam.

What To Serve With Tomato Jam

Serve your Tomato Jam with herbed goat cheese on crostini, avocado slices on Rosemary Bread, and cucumber ribbons. Pair it with lemon-garlic shrimp skewers, or seared scallops, or spread over fresh figs and mascarpone.

You can also enjoy it atop a savory cheesecake or mixed into a vinaigrette for a salad.

How To Store Leftover Tomato Jam

In The Fridge:

Transfer the leftover Tomato Jam into an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure the lid is sealed tightly to prevent any contamination. This jam can remain delicious and safe for up to 3 weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator.

In The Freezer:

Tomato Jam does not freeze well due to its high sugar and low fat content. Freezing might alter its texture and flavor, making it less enjoyable. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator as described.

How To Reheat Leftover Tomato Jam

Reheat your leftover Tomato Jam by gently warming it in a saucepan over low heat until it becomes spreadable. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the sugars.

Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 10 seconds, just enough to soften it without reducing its quality.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Pear Jam
• Slow Cooker Bacon Jam
• Slow Cooker Onion Jam