Every summer in Highland, Wisconsin, the air was filled with the sweet scent of ripening tomatoes and the laughter of my childhood. I eagerly awaited the days when my grandmother would call me over to her cozy, sunlit kitchen. Her garden, a lush oasis of green, was always brimming with the juiciest tomatoes, especially the green ones that were perfect for her famous green tomato jam.
My grandmother, with her gentle hands and warm smile, would hand me a basket, and together we’d venture into the garden. The sun would kiss my cheeks as I carefully picked the plump, green tomatoes, each one a little treasure. She’d tell me stories about her own childhood, weaving tales of family and tradition, as we worked side by side.
Back in the kitchen, the real magic began. I’d stand on a stool, just tall enough to reach the counter, and help her wash the tomatoes. The rhythmic chopping of the tomatoes, the bubbling of the pot, and the sweet, tangy aroma that filled the room were all part of the symphony of canning day. My grandmother would let me stir the pot, her hands guiding mine, teaching me the perfect way to mix the ingredients.
As the jam simmered, I’d sneak tastes, giggling as the warm, sweet mixture danced on my tongue. My grandmother would laugh, her eyes twinkling with joy. She’d tell me that the secret ingredient was love, and I believed her, because every jar of jam was a testament to the love and care we both poured into it.
When the jam was ready, I’d help her ladle it into jars, sealing in the summer’s bounty. Each jar was a little piece of sunshine, a memory preserved. I’d proudly carry a jar home, knowing that I had helped create something special.
Those summers in Highland, Wisconsin, were more than just canning days. They were moments of connection, of learning, and of love. And every time I open a jar of green tomato jam, I’m transported back to those warm, sunlit days in my grandmother’s garden, where the magic of summer was captured in every sweet, tangy bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups green tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Roughly chop the green tomatoes and place them in a food processor or blender. Process until they are pureed.
2. Cook the Jam: In a large pot, combine the tomato puree, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, cinnamon, allspice, and salt. Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium-high heat.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let it simmer steadily for about 30 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
4. Jar the Jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator.
This jam pairs wonderfully with cheese, meats, or simply spread on toast. Enjoy your culinary adventure with my grandmother's simple recipe! 🍅
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