Gorgeous Fig Jam

Homemade jams and preserves hold a special place in kitchens around the world, offering a delightful way to capture the essence of seasonal fruits. The art of making jam is not just about preserving fruit; it’s about creating a delicious spread that can evoke memories, spark creativity in the kitchen, and encourage sharing with family and friends. Among the myriad of fruits that can be transformed into jam, figs stand out due to their unique sweetness and floral undertones. Figgy Delight Jam is a celebration of this exceptional fruit, bringing its distinct flavor to life in a way that can enhance both sweet and savory dishes.

Discover the joy of homemade preserves with this Figgy Delight Jam recipe. Rich with the unique sweetness and floral notes of fresh figs, this versatile jam can elevate breakfast to gourmet status or enhance your charcuterie boards. Learn how to choose the best figs, mix key ingredients like lemon juice and vanilla, and master the cooking process for the perfect texture. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!

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Ingredients

2 pounds fresh ripe figs, stemmed and quartered

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1 tablespoon lemon zest (fresh)

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

1/4 cup water

Instructions

Prepare the Figs: Begin by rinsing the figs under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Remove the stems and cut the figs into quarters.

Combine Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the quartered figs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, ground cinnamon, salt, and water. Stir gently to coat the figs with the sugar and other ingredients.

Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The figs will begin to break down and release their juices.

Mash and Thicken: After 20 minutes, use a potato masher or a fork to gently mash the figs, creating a chunky consistency. Continue to simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, stirring frequently until the jam thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it can hold its shape on the back of a spoon.

Add Vanilla: If using, stir in the vanilla extract and cook for another 2 minutes.

Jar the Jam: Sterilize your jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Carefully ladle the hot fig jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe down the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any stickiness.

Seal and Store: Place the lids on the jars and seal them tightly. Let the jars cool to room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator. For longer shelf life, consider water bath canning.

Enjoy the Jam: Allow the fig jam to rest for at least 24 hours to let the flavors meld before enjoying it. Serve it spread on toast, atop cheese boards, or as a delightful filling for pastries!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: Makes approximately 4 cups