If you’ve ever looked at a jar of juicy cherry tomatoes and thought, “Salad?”, think again. No it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong) — a traditional Korean fruit preserve — transforms fresh tomatoes into a tangy-sweet syrup perfect for drinks, desserts, and more. While tomato may not be your usual syrup choice, this unique recipe is trending for a reason. With minimal ingredients and natural fermentation, this cheong (청) captures the fresh essence of summer tomatoes in a jar.
Whether you’re a fan of K-food or just love trying new pantry staples, no it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong) is the delicious, unexpected treat you didn’t know you needed.
Why You’ll Love This No it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong) Recipe
- 🧂 Just 2 Main Ingredients – No fancy tools or long lists. All you need are fresh tomatoes and sugar.
- 🍅 Preserves Summer Freshness – A great way to enjoy tomato flavor beyond the season.
- 💧 Versatile Use – Add it to sparkling water, cocktails, teas, or drizzle over yogurt and desserts.
- 🌱 Customizable – Infuse with herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing twist.
- 🕒 Effortless Prep – No cooking required. Nature does the work through gentle fermentation.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect No it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong)
Key Ingredients in No it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong):
- Cherry Tomatoes – Naturally sweet and juicy; they break down into a tangy syrup as they ferment.
- White Sugar – Draws out moisture from the tomatoes and preserves the syrup.
- Fresh Herbs (optional) – Basil or mint can add extra aroma and flavor depth.
- Lemon Juice (optional) – Enhances freshness and shelf life, adding a light citrus note.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make No it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong)
- Prepare Your Jar
Sterilize a clean glass jar by rinsing it in boiling water. Let it air dry completely. - Wash and Prep Tomatoes
Rinse cherry tomatoes well. Leave whole or cut in half for quicker fermentation. Remove any stems. - Layer Tomatoes and Sugar
Add a layer of tomatoes to the jar, followed by a layer of sugar. Repeat until full. Make sure the top layer is sugar. - Add Herbs (Optional)
Place a few basil or mint leaves in between layers if desired. - Start the Fermentation
Loosely seal the jar. Let it sit at room temperature (cool and shaded) for 2–3 days. Stir daily with a clean, dry spoon. - Finish and Store
Once sugar is dissolved and the tomatoes have released syrup, strain if desired. Transfer syrup to a clean bottle and store in the fridge.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For a quicker syrup, halve the tomatoes before layering.
- Use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Add a pinch of salt to round out the sweetness.
- Spicy version: Add a thin slice of chili for a subtle heat.
- Low-sugar option: Reduce sugar, but note it may shorten shelf life.
How to Store & Reheat
- Storage: Keep in a sealed jar or bottle in the refrigerator. Lasts up to 1 month.
- No reheating needed: This syrup is served cold or at room temp. Simply stir before use.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of unique tomato recipes like no it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong), you’ll definitely enjoy these delicious ideas:
- Homemade Tomato Soup – A cozy, comforting bowl of smooth tomato goodness, perfect for any season.
- Marinated Cherry Tomatoes – A zesty, garlicky snack or side that brings out the best in fresh cherry tomatoes.
Each one offers a new way to celebrate the humble tomato—sweet or savory!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes! Just chop them into small chunks and remove excess seeds if needed.
Is fermentation safe at room temperature?
Absolutely — as long as the jar is clean and it’s kept in a cool, dry place for no more than 3 days before refrigerating.
What can I do with the leftover tomato pieces?
They can be blended into sauces or used as a tangy topping for toast or salad.
Can I make this syrup sugar-free?
You need sugar for the preservation process. For a sugar-free version, make a quick cooked syrup instead.
If you’re ready to try something different, no it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong) is the sweet, tangy flavor bomb your pantry is missing. It’s easy to make, endlessly versatile, and a fun way to explore Korean home traditions. Give it a try, share your creations, and don’t forget to follow for more global-inspired recipes!
No it is Tomato Syrup (Cheong)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes whole or halved
- 2 cups white sugar equal weight to tomatoes
- Fresh basil or mint leaves optional
- 1 tbsp lemon juice optional
Instructions
- Sterilize a clean glass jar and let it dry completely.
- Rinse and dry cherry tomatoes. Halve if you want quicker fermentation.
- In the jar, layer tomatoes and sugar alternately. Top with a final layer of sugar.
- Add optional herbs or lemon juice for extra flavor and preservation.
- Loosely seal the jar and leave at room temperature for 2–3 days. Stir once daily.
- Once sugar is dissolved and syrup is formed, strain if desired.
- Store syrup in a clean bottle or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.