Tomato Jam - The "New" Ketchup!

Have you ever tried Tomato Jam? If you're a ketchup fan, you'll definitely love this unusual and delicious savory jam that can be used in a variety of ways. Use this in place of ketchup on sandwiches and with meatloaf.

I first tasted Tomato Jam while visiting the Amish Community in Shipshewana, Indiana. It's sweet spiciness hooked me at first taste!

Though it does have somewhat of a long simmering time, it's actually quite easy to make. You can get the recipe here: Tomato Jam

Ingredients are, tomatoes (of course), red-wine vinegar, brown sugar, honey, red onion, fresh garlic & ginger, ground ginger, ground cloves, cinnamon stick & star anise.

Have you ever seen or used "Star Anise"? These wonderful spice pods have a delicious anise or licorice taste, and look like, what else, little stars!

The jam starts out with a hot pan and a little olive oil. Saute the garlic, fresh ginger, and onion until translucent.

Add the tomatoes, breaking them up with the back of a wooden spoon. Then add the vinegar, honey, brown sugar and all the spices.

Simmer and stir for about 70 minutes until the tomatoes have dissolved, the liquid has evaporated and it's the consistency almost that of ketchup.

Discard the cinnamon sticks and star anise and cool before serving. Will keep for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.