Fig Jam simple recipe
- Helena Radulovic Toffolon

- 5 hours ago
- 5 min read
Making fig jam is a delightful way to preserve the sweet, rich flavors of fresh figs. This simple recipe allows you to create a delicious spread that can be enjoyed on toast, paired with cheese, or used as a filling for pastries. Below, you will find a detailed guide to crafting your own fig jam at home, ensuring you capture the essence of this exquisite fruit.
Ingredients
To get started, you will need the following ingredients:
- Fresh Figs: Approximately 2 pounds of ripe figs. Look for figs that are plump and slightly soft to the touch, indicating their ripeness and sweetness.
- Sugar: About 1 to 1.5 cups of granulated sugar, depending on your taste preference and the natural sweetness of the figs.
- Lemon Juice: The juice of one large lemon, which will help balance the sweetness and add a touch of acidity, enhancing the overall flavor of the jam.
- Optional Spices: For those who wish to elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the FigsBegin by washing the fresh figs thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. After rinsing, gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Next, remove the stems and cut the figs into quarters or smaller pieces, depending on your desired texture for the jam. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can also mash the figs slightly with a fork.
Step 2: Combine IngredientsIn a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the prepared figs, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the sugar is evenly distributed among the figs. Allow this mixture to sit for about 30 minutes to an hour, as this will help the figs release their natural juices, creating a syrupy base for the jam.
Step 3: Cook the JamPlace the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As it heats, stir frequently to prevent the figs from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. The cooking process should last about 30 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the consistency; you want the jam to thicken while still retaining some chunks of figs for texture.
Step 4: Test for DonenessTo check if your fig jam is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam; if it holds its shape and does not immediately run back together, it is done. If it is still too runny, continue to simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes and test again.
Step 5: Jar the JamOnce your fig jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about a quarter-inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal, then seal them with sterilized lids.
Step 6: Store and EnjoyLet the jars cool to room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator. The fig jam can be enjoyed immediately, but for the best flavor, allow it to sit for at least 24 hours. The jam can also be processed in a water bath for longer shelf life if you wish to store it at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Fig jam is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways. Spread it on warm, crusty bread or toast for a delightful breakfast treat. Pair it with creamy cheeses, such as goat cheese or brie, for an elegant appetizer. It can also be used as a filling for pastries or added to yogurt for a sweet touch.
Conclusion
This simple fig jam recipe not only captures the essence of fresh figs but also allows you to create a delightful homemade treat that can be enjoyed throughout the year. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can savor the rich and complex flavors of figs in a jar, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Ingredients: simple, total time: 45 min.
1 kg of ripe figs, cleaned / if they are sweet, 175-200 g of sugar is enough
1 bag of vanilla sugar
2 Tbsp of lemon juice / orange can be substituted
1 tsp of baking soda + water for sterilaze lemon
1/2 rind of a whole lemon / or orange
1 sterile jar + lid / 600-700 g
Preparation:
In a large bowl, immerse a whole lemon in water with baking soda. This can be done either one day in advance or two hours prior to preparing the jam.
Thoroughly wash the figs and pat them dry using a kitchen towel.
Remove the green skin and cut the figs into smaller pieces.
Blend the figs in a blender until smooth.
Transfer the mixture to a medium saucepan. If preferred, the seeds can be strained out, although I choose to retain them for this jam.
Add vanilla sugar, regular sugar, and lemon or orange peel to the saucepan. Cook over low heat for approximately 35 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
If the quantity is larger:
Arrange the jars horizontally in a cold oven, keeping the lids separate.
Set the oven to 90°C and maintain this temperature for up to 90 minutes. After turning off the oven, allow it to cool slightly before opening. Using protective gloves, carefully remove the jars and lids, placing them on a work surface lined with thick cloths or a board.
Once the jars are ready, use a large spoon to fill the warm, sterile jars with jam, and secure them with lids. (Alternatively, you may cover with cellophane before sealing with the lid).
Place the jars upside down and leave them in this position until the following day. Cover them with a clean cloth. Once the jars have cooled, turn them upright and store them in the pantry.
Note: To prevent cracking from high temperatures, avoid pouring hot jam into cold jars.
In case there is a smaller amount of jam:
Thoroughly clean the jars and lids using hot water. Heat them in a deep pot lined with a cotton cloth and filled with water, ensuring the water level is less than half the height of the jars. Simmer on low heat for approximately 20-30 minutes. Carefully remove and dry them.
Promptly pour a small amount of jam into the warmed jars, alternating between jars, and leave a 1 cm space at the top.
Securely seal the jars with cellophane and a lid, then invert them so the lid is facing downward. Cover with a cloth and allow them to cool completely. Turn them upright the following day.
Buon appetito!
"A recipe may begin with ingredients, but its true flavor comes from the love and memories shared through it." ☕🍰🌹
NOTE:
When preparing a larger batch in a deeper pot, additional cooking time may be required; however, this jam does not require extensive cooking.
Orange or lime can be substituted for lemon.
Alternative sweeteners such as stevia, maple syrup, or honey can replace sugar.
This jam is versatile and can be used as a spread or as a filling for cookies and other desserts.
If you enjoy fig jam, consider combining it with strawberries, oranges, plums, and apricots for a delightful blend.
Store the jam in a cool, dark place.
Do you want to try something a little different?
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