Tomato Butter. Mrs. J. Kishler. Recipe

History and Fun Facts:

Tomato butter is a delicious and versatile spread that has been enjoyed for many years. While the exact origins of this recipe are unknown, it is believed to have originated in the United States, where tomatoes were abundant and readily available. Tomato butter gained popularity in the 19th century as a way to preserve the flavor of ripe tomatoes and enjoy them throughout the year.

Tomato butter is unique because it combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the tartness of apples to create a delightful and balanced spread. The addition of ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth of flavor to the recipe, making it even more enticing. This recipe is not only simple to make but also a great way to make use of tomatoes and apples during their peak season.

Now, let's delve into the recipe and create a delicious batch of tomato butter!

Recipe: Tomato Butter

Ingredients:
- 1 quart of tomatoes
- 1 pint of apples
- 1 quart of sugar
- Ground cinnamon, to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash the tomatoes and apples thoroughly. Peel the apples and remove the core. Cut them into small chunks.

2. In a large pot, combine the tomatoes and apples. Use a sieve or a food mill to process the mixture, straining out any seeds or unwanted bits. This will result in a smooth and uniform texture.

3. Add the sugar to the pot, along with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. The amount of cinnamon can vary depending on personal preference, so start with a small amount and adjust later if desired.

4. Place the pot on the stove over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

5. Allow the mixture to cook slowly until it starts to thicken and resembles a preserve-like consistency. This can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours.

6. Once the tomato butter has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

7. While still warm, carefully transfer the tomato butter into sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly and allow them to cool completely.

8. Once cooled, store the jars of tomato butter in a cool, dark place. They can be refrigerated for up to several weeks, or preserved using traditional canning methods for longer shelf life.

Enjoying Tomato Butter:

Tomato butter can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Spread it on toast or bagels for a delicious and flavorful breakfast treat.

2. Use it as a condiment for sandwiches, burgers, or wraps. Its unique combination of flavors will add a delightful twist to your favorite lunchtime meals.

3. Incorporate tomato butter into your baking recipes. It can be used as a filling for pastries or tarts, or even as a flavoring agent in cakes or cookies.

4. Add a spoonful of tomato butter to your savory dishes. It can be stirred into pasta sauces, stews, or soups to enhance their flavor and add a touch of sweetness.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoyed making and tasting tomato butter, you might also like these similar recipe dishes:

1. Apple Butter: Similar to tomato butter, apple butter is made by cooking down apples with sugar and spices until it forms a thick and smooth spread. It can be enjoyed in much the same way as tomato butter, as a spread or as an ingredient in various recipes.

2. Pumpkin Butter: This fall-inspired spread is made by simmering pumpkin puree with sugar and spices until it develops a rich and creamy texture. It is a popular seasonal treat that can be enjoyed on toast, in baked goods, or even as a filling for pies.

3. Fig Butter: Made from simmering fresh figs with sugar and a hint of lemon juice, fig butter is a delightful and unique spread. It pairs beautifully with cheese, crackers, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.

By exploring these similar recipe dishes, you can continue to enjoy the art of making delicious and homemade spreads that are perfect for any occasion.