Description
This Homemade Fig Jam Recipe is a simple and delicious way to preserve the natural sweetness of fresh figs. With just a few ingredients like fresh figs, sugar, lemon juice, and optional cinnamon and vanilla, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to yogurt, or complementing a cheese board. The stovetop cooking method gently simmers the figs to create a rich, flavorful, and smooth jam that thickens perfectly as it cools.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh figs, stems removed and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Figs: Rinse the figs thoroughly under cold water, remove the stems, and chop them into small pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook Figs to Release Juices: Place the chopped figs in a medium saucepan along with the water. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the figs soften and begin to release their juices.
- Add Sugar and Lemon Juice: Stir in the granulated sugar and fresh lemon juice, mixing well until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Simmer the Jam: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
- Mash to Desired Consistency: As the jam thickens, use a spoon or potato masher to mash some of the figs, adjusting the texture to your preference.
- Incorporate Optional Flavors: Stir in ground cinnamon and vanilla extract if using, then cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat, let the jam cool slightly, then transfer it into clean jars. Allow it to cool completely before sealing and storing.
Notes
- The jam will thicken further as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny when hot.
- For a smoother texture, blend the jam briefly with an immersion blender before cooling.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
- For longer storage, use proper canning methods to seal the jars.
- This fig jam pairs wonderfully with toast, biscuits, yogurt, or cheese boards.