There’s something truly magical about transforming humble beets into a vibrant and flavorful treasure, and that’s exactly what you get with this Roasted Beet Jam Recipe. It’s an unexpected delight that balances earthy sweetness with a tangy zing, making it a versatile condiment you’ll want to savor with everything from cheese boards to toasted bread. This jam captures the deep, rich flavors of roasted beets and elevates them with just the right amount of spice and acidity to create a luscious, spreadable treat that’s as beautiful on the table as it is on your palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up the Roasted Beet Jam Recipe is wonderfully simple thanks to a handful of ingredients that each play an essential role in the final taste, texture, and color. You’ll appreciate how these natural elements combine effortlessly to highlight the earthy nature of the beets while adding brightness and warmth.
- Red beets, 1 pound: The hero of this recipe, roasted to develop a sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant color.
- Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup: Balances the earthiness with just the right touch of sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup: Adds a tangy kick that elevates the jam’s complexity.
- Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Fresh acidity brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Grated fresh ginger, 1 teaspoon: Provides a warm, spicy undertone that complements the beets beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the jam.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances sweetness.
- Water, 1/4 cup: Helps create the perfect jammy consistency during cooking.
How to Make Roasted Beet Jam Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Beets
Preheat your oven to 400°F and wrap each beet individually in foil. Pop them directly on the oven rack and roast for about 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce through them with a knife. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and tenderizes the beets, which is the foundation for your jam’s rich flavor.
Step 2: Peel and Chop
Once the beets are cool enough to handle, peel off their skins — the roasting makes this super easy. Roughly chop the peeled beets so they’re ready for processing. This step helps create the perfect texture, letting you control how chunky or smooth you want your jam.
Step 3: Pulse in Food Processor
Put the chopped beets into a food processor and pulse just until finely chopped. The goal is a coarse, spreadable texture rather than a puree. This adds wonderful bite and body to the finished jam.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Transfer the processed beets to a saucepan and stir in sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, grated ginger, cinnamon, salt, and water. Bring everything to a simmer over medium heat, then cook gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring now and then. The jam will thicken beautifully and develop a luscious, jammy consistency during this time.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Take the pan off the heat and let your roasted beet jam cool down. Transfer it to an airtight jar and pop it into the fridge where it will keep fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks. This makes it an easy crowd-pleaser to have ready whenever you need a special touch.
How to Serve Roasted Beet Jam Recipe
Garnishes
This jam shines with simple garnishes that enhance its unique flavor. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or a few cracked black peppercorns on top can add aromatic depth, while a sliver of soft goat cheese creates an irresistible contrast in texture and taste.
Side Dishes
Roasted beet jam pairs exquisitely with a variety of sides — think warm roasted meats like pork or chicken, where its sweetness and acidity cut through rich flavors. It’s also phenomenal alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables for a harmonious vegetable-rich plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by dolloping this jam onto crostini topped with ricotta or mascarpone cheese, or use it as a flavorful glaze on roasted nuts for an unexpected appetizer. You can even swirl it into savory yogurt dips or add a spoonful to grain bowls for an exciting burst of color and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover roasted beet jam keeps remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks when stored in a sealed container. Its complex flavors deepen over time, making each bite even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this jam well beyond two weeks, freezing is an excellent option. Transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will last for several months while maintaining its flavor and texture when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat small amounts gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also enjoy this jam cold or at room temperature, depending on your preference and how it’s being served.
FAQs
Can I use golden beets instead of red beets for this Roasted Beet Jam Recipe?
Absolutely! Golden beets provide a milder, sweeter flavor and create a beautiful, vibrant yellow-orange jam. The texture and cooking process remain the same, so feel free to experiment with color and taste to suit your preferences.
Is this jam gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, this Roasted Beet Jam Recipe is both vegan and gluten-free, made entirely from whole plant-based ingredients. It’s a great condiment choice for those with dietary restrictions or anyone wanting a wholesome, natural spread.
How spicy is the jam with the fresh ginger?
The ginger adds a gentle warmth and subtle spiciness without overpowering the beets’ sweetness. If you prefer more or less heat, you can easily adjust the amount of grated ginger to taste or add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicier twist.
Can I make this jam without a food processor?
If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop the roasted beets by hand or use a blender with short pulses. It just might take a little longer, but the result will still be delicious with a slightly different texture.
What are some dishes that pair well with roasted beet jam?
This jam is perfect with cheese boards, especially paired with creamy cheeses like goat cheese or brie. It’s also fantastic spread on toast, dolloped on roasted meats, or mixed into grain salads for a burst of flavor and color.
Final Thoughts
There’s such joy in discovering a condiment that feels both special and easy to make, and this Roasted Beet Jam Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a beautifully simple way to celebrate the natural sweetness and earthiness of beets while adding a gourmet touch to everyday meals. Give it a try — once you taste this jam, it will quickly become one of your favorite kitchen companions.
Print
Roasted Beet Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This vibrant Roasted Beet Jam is a deliciously earthy and sweet condiment, perfect for enhancing cheese boards, roasted meats, or toast. Featuring roasted red beets cooked down with sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, fresh ginger, and warm cinnamon, this homemade jam delivers a rich and complex flavor profile with a smooth yet textured consistency.
Ingredients
Beet Jam Ingredients
- 1 pound red beets (about 3 medium, trimmed and scrubbed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet individually in foil and place them directly on the oven rack. Roast for 45 to 60 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a knife, indicating they are tender.
- Prepare Beets for Jam: Allow the roasted beets to cool slightly until safe to handle. Peel off the skins, which should slip off easily, and roughly chop the beets into smaller pieces for processing.
- Process the Beets: Place the chopped beets into a food processor and pulse until finely chopped but not pureed. You want small pieces to retain some texture in your jam.
- Cook the Jam: Transfer the chopped beets into a saucepan. Add the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, grated fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and water. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes jammy in consistency.
- Cool and Store: Remove the pan from heat and let the jam cool to room temperature. Transfer the jam into an airtight jar and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks.
Notes
- This earthy-sweet jam pairs perfectly with cheese boards, roasted meats, or spread on toast.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Use golden beets for a milder flavor and vibrant yellow color.
