
This vibrant, sticky tomato chilli jam is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. It's an incredibly versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with cheese boards, grilled burgers, or even a simple breakfast toast.
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped banana shallots and sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and have turned a light golden brown.
Stir in the chopped garlic, fennel seeds, and chillies. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spices are fragrant and the garlic is soft but not browned.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes, light brown soft sugar, and white wine vinegar to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the mixture has thickened significantly and become sticky. You'll know it's ready when a spatula drawn through the mixture leaves a clear path on the bottom of the pan.
Carefully transfer the hot jam into a sterilized 500ml glass jar. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before sealing. Store in a cool, dry place.
For a smoother consistency, you can pulse the jam briefly in a food processor before jarring. To ensure long-term storage, make sure your jars are properly sterilized. Unopened, this jam will keep for up to a year; once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within one month.