Easy Savory Tomato Jam Recipe (Perfect for Burgers)

This savory tomato jam cooks ripe tomatoes, onion, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices into a thick burger-ready spread.

Savory Tomato Jam for Burgers and Sandwiches

The mixture reduces slowly until a spoon leaves a clear trail across the pan. This is a refrigerator recipe, not a shelf-stable canning method.

• Prep time: 10 minutes.
• Cook time: 35 to 45 minutes.
• Yield: About 1 1/2 cups.
• Serving: 2 tbsp per burger.
• Storage: Refrigerate up to 10 days.

Ingredients

• 2 lb Roma tomatoes, cored and diced
• 1 cup finely diced yellow onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

How to Make Savory Tomato Jam

1. Add every ingredient to a wide 3-quart saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring every minute.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low once the mixture bubbles steadily.
4. Simmer uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
5. Stir more frequently during the final 10 minutes to prevent scorching.
6. Remove from heat when a spoon drawn across the pan leaves a trail for 2 seconds.
7. Cool for 20 minutes before transferring to a clean 16-oz jar.

How to Use Tomato Jam

• Spread 2 tbsp on a grilled beef or bean burger.
• Add 1 tbsp to a grilled cheese sandwich.
• Spoon over baked chicken during the final 5 minutes.
• Serve with cream cheese and plain crackers.
• Use 1 tsp in a vinaigrette for sweet-savory depth.

Safe Storage

• Cool before sealing the jar.
• Refrigerate at 40 degrees F or colder.
• Use a clean spoon every time.
• Discard for mold, fermentation, or an off odor.
• Do not store this recipe at room temperature.

Try another small batch with Jalapeno Pepper Jam, Spiced Peach Jam, or Keto Blackberry Jam.

Savory Tomato Jam FAQ

Do I need to peel the tomatoes?

No. Finely diced Roma tomato skins soften during the 35-to-45-minute simmer.

Can I freeze it?

Yes. Freeze cooled jam in an airtight freezer container for up to 2 months, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace.