Homemade Sweet Fig Jam Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 kilogram of fresh, ripe figs
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup of lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the figs and cut off the stems. Cut the figs into quarters.
  2. In a large pot, combine the figs, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir until the sugar is thoroughly dissolved.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to ensure that the figs don't stick to the bottom of the pot.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer. Continue to stir occasionally.
  5. Simmer until the mixture has thickened to a jam-like consistency, approximately 1 to 2 hours.
  6. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Let the jam cool for a few minutes.
  8. While the jam is still warm, ladle it into sterilized jars. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top of each jar.
  9. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool at room temperature.
  10. Store the jars of jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and consume within a month.

Tools for making

  • Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for cutting and preparing the figs.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the figs into quarters.
  • Large Pot - A pot large enough to hold all the ingredients and allow for simmering.
  • Wooden Spoon - A spoon for stirring the fig mixture while it cooks.
  • Ladle - A ladle for transferring the jam into jars.
  • Jars - Sterilized jars with tight-fitting lids for storing the fig jam.
  • Canning Funnel - A funnel to help pour the jam into the jars without making a mess.
  • Jar Lifter - A tool for safely lifting hot jars in and out of boiling water during the canning process.
  • Water Bath Canner - A large pot with a rack for processing the jars in a boiling water bath.

Recipe variations

  • Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.
  • Experiment with different types of figs, such as Black Mission, Brown Turkey, or Kadota.
  • Add a splash of rum or brandy for a boozy twist.
  • Include chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for added texture.
  • Try using a combination of figs and another fruit, like strawberries or oranges, for a unique flavor blend.
  • Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for an herbal infusion.
  • For a touch of tanginess, mix in a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
  • Adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less sugar, depending on personal preference.
  • For a spicy kick, include a small amount of finely chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Experiment with different citrus flavors by substituting the lemon juice and zest with lime, orange, or grapefruit.

Recipe overview

Enjoy the sweet, luscious taste of fresh figs all year round with this easy Fig Jam recipe! This homemade fig jam captures the ripe, juicy flavor of figs, balanced with a tangy hint of lemon and a subtle note of vanilla. It's perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or even spooning onto desserts. The recipe involves simmering the figs until they reach a jam-like consistency, creating a rich and flavorful spread. It's a simple process that requires just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience. Once made, you can store it for use throughout the year, ensuring you always have a jar of this delightful jam at hand.

Common questions

  1. How do I know if the figs are ripe? Look for figs that are soft to the touch and have a deep color. They should give slightly when pressed.
  2. Can I use dried figs instead of fresh ones? Yes, you can use dried figs, but you will need to rehydrate them before using. Soak the dried figs in warm water for about 30 minutes, then drain and proceed with the recipe.
  3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. However, keep in mind that sugar helps with the preservation and texture of the jam.
  4. Can I substitute the lemon juice with another citrus juice? Yes, you can replace the lemon juice with lime juice or orange juice if you prefer a different flavor.
  5. How long does the jam need to simmer? The jam should simmer until it reaches a thick, jam-like consistency. This usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, but it can vary depending on the heat and the desired thickness.
  6. Do I need to sterilize the jars? Yes, it is important to sterilize the jars before filling them with the jam. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria and ensures the jam stays fresh for longer.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Use a cutting board to chop the figs into quarters.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is needed to cut the figs and remove their stems.
  • Large pot - Use a large pot to cook the figs and other ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the fig mixture while it simmers.
  • Ladle - Use a ladle to transfer the warm fig jam into sterilized jars.
  • Sterilized jars - Make sure to sterilize the jars before filling them with the fig jam.
  • Canning funnel - A canning funnel can make it easier to pour the jam into the jars without making a mess.

Origin stories

Figs, one of the oldest fruits known to humankind, have a rich history interwoven with tales of survival, prosperity, and divine symbolism. Ancient Greeks cherished figs so much so that laws were created preventing their export, preserving the succulent fruits for local consumption. The sweet, sticky delight of figs, combined with an abundant harvest, led to the creation of fig jam. This luscious preserve not only extended the short seasonal window of the fruit, but also played an important role as a sweetener in times when sugar was a rare luxury. To this day, fig jam remains a beloved staple in many Mediterranean households, a nod to the region's rich culinary legacy that has been passed on from generation to generation.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.