Jammy Tomato Butter: A Summer Staple with Just Two Ingredients and No Butter!

When summer arrives and juicy tomatoes are at their peak, it’s the perfect opportunity to get creative with this vibrant fruit. While a roasted cherry tomato tart with herbed ricotta or a zesty homemade tomato vinaigrette are tempting choices, there’s another delightful way to savor these seasonal beauties: making tomato butter.

Despite its name, tomato butter doesn’t contain any butter at all. Instead, it’s a sweet and savory spread crafted from just two simple ingredients: ripe tomatoes and sugar. This concoction may remind you of ketchup in its base, but it’s distinctly different in its chunkier texture and fresher, more vibrant flavor. Plus, the beauty of homemade tomato butter lies in its versatility. While the basic recipe is simple, you can customize it with your favorite spices and flavorings to suit your taste.

How to Make and Use Tomato Butter:

Creating tomato butter is surprisingly straightforward, resembling more of a jam-making process than traditional butter preparation. Start by heating your tomatoes and sugar on the stove, and feel free to add any extra ingredients you love. For a depth of flavor, consider incorporating spices such as cinnamon, garlic, ginger, cumin, or cloves. If you’re craving a bit of heat, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or minced jalapeño will do the trick. A splash of lemon or lime juice can add a tangy contrast to the sweetness if desired.

Once your mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens to a buttery consistency. Allow the tomato butter to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for refrigeration. It will keep fresh for up to three weeks, or you can freeze it for up to a year if you have more than you can use in the short term.

Tomato butter is incredibly versatile. Spread it on toast or crackers for a quick snack, or add it to charcuterie boards and sandwiches for a burst of flavor. It pairs beautifully with proteins like chicken and fish, or can be stirred into hot dishes such as pasta, scrambled eggs, and risotto. It’s also a fantastic topping for pizza or a flavorful swirl for soups.

With its simplicity and adaptability, tomato butter is a perfect way to make the most of summer’s tomato bounty and enjoy a unique condiment that’s both delicious and convenient.