Cheat’s Tomato Chilli Jam Recipe
Introduction
This Cheat’s Tomato Chilli Jam is a quick and flavorful condiment perfect for adding a spicy-sweet kick to your dishes. Combining tangy tomatoes, fiery chilli, and warming spices, it’s easy to make and incredibly versatile.

Ingredients
- 400g can chopped tomatoes
- 1 finely chopped red chilli
- 1 grated thumb-sized piece of ginger
- 1 star anise
- 250g caster sugar
- 150ml red wine vinegar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the chopped tomatoes, finely chopped red chilli, grated ginger, star anise, caster sugar, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt into a saucepan.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook gently for about 30 minutes until the jam is thick and glossy.
- Step 3: Remove the pan from the heat and allow the jam to cool to room temperature.
- Step 4: Transfer the cooled jam to a sterilised jar and seal tightly.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of chilli or remove the seeds before chopping.
- You can swap star anise for a cinnamon stick for a different warm spice note.
- Add a splash of orange juice for a fruity twist.
Storage
Store the jam in a sterilised jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks once opened. Unopened, it can keep for up to six months in a cool, dark place. Reheat gently if desired before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh, ripe tomatoes chopped finely, but canned tomatoes are preferred for consistent texture and cooking time.
Is this jam suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, making this jam suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
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Cheat’s Tomato Chilli Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 jar (about 500ml) 1x
Description
This Cheat’s Tomato Chilli Jam is a quick and easy homemade condiment that combines the sweetness of tomatoes and sugar with the spicy kick of red chilli and the warmth of star anise and ginger. Perfect for adding a flavorful punch to sandwiches, cheeses, or grilled meats, this thick and glossy jam requires just a single simmering step to create a deliciously sticky and balanced preserve.
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 400g can chopped tomatoes
- 1 finely chopped red chilli
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
- 1 star anise
- 250g caster sugar
- 150ml red wine vinegar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the canned chopped tomatoes, finely chopped red chilli, grated ginger, star anise, caster sugar, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt into a large pan.
- Simmer the Jam: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Cool and Store: Remove the pan from the heat and let the jam cool completely. Transfer the cooled jam into a sterilised jar for storage.
- Preserve: Store the jam in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to two weeks once opened, or can be stored unopened for up to six months in a cool, dark place.
Notes
- Ensure the jar is properly sterilised to extend the shelf life of the jam.
- You can adjust the amount of chilli to suit your preferred spice level.
- The jam pairs wonderfully with cheeses, sandwiches, grilled meats, and as a flavor boost in sauces.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: tomato chilli jam, homemade jam, spicy jam, easy chutney, quick jam

