Tomato Jelly Delight
Tomato jelly is a savory and subtly sweet delicacy that transforms the humble tomato into a remarkable preserve. Combining the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and zesty spices, this jelly offers a unique taste experience perfect for adventurous palates. The process involves careful preparation and cooking to balance the textures and flavors seamlessly. Enhanced by spices like chili powder and black pepper, this jelly can be a delightful addition to your pantry. Suitable as a condiment or a spread, it lends itself well to various pairings. With a simple preparation process, this recipe allows you to enjoy the abundant flavor of tomatoes year-round. Packed in sterilized jars, tomato jelly preserves both taste and freshness. Whether you're looking for a new way to enjoy tomatoes or create an intriguing homemade gift, tomato jelly caters to both. Experiment with different spice levels to suit your preference, and enjoy the burst of flavor that this unique jelly provides.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 kg tomatoes
- 2 large onions
- 1 head of garlic
- 4 packs (15 g each) gelatin
- 2 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Vinegar essence
Spices
- Chili powder (to taste)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- Basil (dried or fresh)
Preparation Time
Total time: 90 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Start by blanching the tomatoes to easily remove their skins, then core them.
- Peel the onions and garlic.
- Measure and record the water level at 0.5 liters in a bowl.
- Cut the tomatoes, onions, and garlic into smaller pieces that will fit into a meat grinder. Process them until they reach the previously noted 0.5-liter mark.
- Transfer the ground mixture to a larger enameled or stainless steel pot (4-6 liters), keeping track of the half-liter quantities added.
- Slowly stir the gelatin into the cold mixture, using 15 g (1 pack) of gelatin for every half-liter.
- Allow the gelatin to swell in the mixture for 1 hour.
- Heat the mixture on the stove, and when it starts to warm, stir in salt, sugar, chili powder, ground black pepper, and basil to taste.
- Continue heating, gently stirring occasionally.
- Mix in vinegar essence, continuing to heat until foam and steam barely appear, but avoid boiling.
- Pour the jelly into sterilized 0.5-liter jars (aim for about 4 jars).
- Place the jars in a pot of hot water, with a cloth beneath them. Heat the water to 80-85 degrees Celsius, turn off the stove, and leave for 10 minutes.
- Seal and label the jars.
- Cool them at room temperature; then store in a cellar or other cool place.
- Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Tips
- Ensure tomatoes are ripe for the best taste.
- Adjust chili powder to moderate the heat according to your preference.
- Sterilizing jars is crucial for long-term storage.
Nutrition
- Calories: 40 per serving
- Protein: 1g
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 9g
Variations
- Use honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness.
- Try adding herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Consider serving with fresh bread or crackers.
- Pairs well with aged cheeses.
- Wonderful as a glaze for grilled meats.
Best Places
- Tomato Spirit Café - Known for its diverse range of tomato preserves. Location: 123 Tomato Lane, Rome, Italy.
- Savory Sweets Bistro - Offers unique jams and jellies. Location: 45 Flavor Street, Paris, France.
- Preserve Paradise - Famous for authentic local flavors. Location: 67 Harvest Avenue, Girona, Spain.
- Gourmet's Haven - A specialty shop for unique culinary delights. Location: 89 Delicacy Road, Berlin, Germany.
- Aroma's Delight - Combines traditional recipes with modern twists. Location: 22 Scented Drive, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Taste Innovators - Known for innovative use of preserves. Location: 11 Fusion Street, New York City, USA.
- Fusion Flavors Café - Offers a delectable variety of jellies. Location: 78 Harmonize Blvd, London, UK.
- Artisan Goods - Features handcrafted preserves and spreads. Location: 33 Craftman’s Way, Melbourne, Australia.
- Culinary Classics - Serves traditional and modern jam recipes. Location: 90 Heritage Road, Kyoto, Japan.
- Tasty Traditions - Specializes in homemade jellies and jams. Location: 101 Flavor Lane, Cape Town, South Africa.