The sweet aroma of fig jam wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Its luscious texture and rich flavor dance on your taste buds, igniting memories of cozy breakfasts and delightful gatherings with friends.

As you spread this divine concoction on warm, buttery toast or spoon it over creamy cheese, anticipation builds for the explosion of flavor that’s about to unfold. Fig jam is not just a treat; it’s an experience meant for sharing and savoring.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This fig jam recipe is simple yet impressive, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike
- The vibrant colors and textures elevate any dish, from charcuterie boards to desserts
- Enjoy its versatility as a topping or filling for various dishes and indulge in its unique sweet-tart flavor profile
I remember the first time I made fig jam; my family couldn’t stop raving about how good it was. Their happy faces were worth all the effort!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Figs: Look for ripe figs that yield slightly to pressure for the best sweetness and flavor.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar helps balance the natural sweetness of figs while aiding in preservation.
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Fresh Lemon Juice: This adds acidity to brighten flavors; use freshly squeezed for best results.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the depth of flavor; choose pure vanilla extract for authenticity.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Figs: Start by washing your fresh figs under cool water. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel and remove the stems.
Chop Those Figs: Slice your figs into quarters or smaller pieces depending on how chunky you like your jam. The smaller they are, the quicker they’ll break down.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized pot, mix your chopped figs with sugar, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir well until combined, creating a colorful mosaic.
Cook Over Medium Heat: Set your pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally as it bubbles away, releasing sweet aromas into your kitchen.
Simmer Until Thickened: Let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Remember to keep stirring so it doesn’t stick to the bottom!
Cool and Store: Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool completely before transferring it into sterilized jars. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks or process for longer storage.
Now you have an irresistible fig jam that not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen with delightful scents!
You Must Know
- Making fig jam is a delightful experience
- The sweet aroma fills your kitchen, and the smooth, velvety texture elevates any dish
- Remember, patience is key; let it simmer to achieve that perfect consistency
- It’s not just a spread; it’s a homemade treasure!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing and chopping fresh figs, then cook them with lemon juice and sugar until they break down. Stir frequently for even cooking and avoid sticking.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for warmth, or switch sugar with honey for a natural sweetness. You can also mix in nuts for crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store fig jam in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to three months. Reheat gently on low heat if you prefer it warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid burning, keep an eye on the jam as it cooks
- Use ripe figs for better flavor and texture
- Don’t rush the cooling process; letting it sit enhances the taste!
Cooking fig jam takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where we would laugh while stirring away, surrounded by jars of her homemade delights.
FAQ
What types of figs are best for fig jam?
Black Mission figs are sweet and flavorful, making them ideal for delicious fig jam.
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?
Yes, but soak dried figs in water before cooking to rehydrate them properly.
How do I know when my fig jam is ready?
The jam is ready when it reaches a thick consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Fig Jam
Fig jam is a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors, capturing the essence of fresh figs in every spoonful. This homemade spread brings warmth to your breakfast table and elevates snacks or desserts with its rich texture. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying on your own, this fig jam recipe is simple enough for any home cook to master. Let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen as you create a delicious treat that’s not just a spread but a cherished memory waiting to happen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh figs, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Wash and pat dry the fresh figs, then remove the stems.
- Chop figs into quarters or smaller pieces.
- In a medium pot, combine chopped figs, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Heat over medium heat until it simmers, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer for about 30 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Cool completely before transferring to sterilized jars.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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