Fresh Fig Jam



Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30–45 minutes
Total Time: 40–55 minutes
Yield: About 1½ cups
Category: Snack

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Notes After Making

Add

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups chopped fresh figs (300 g), stems removed
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (98 g)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom, optional
  • Zest and juice of ½ lemon or orange 
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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Instructions

  1. Remove the stems from the figs and roughly chop them. For a smoother jam, finely chop the figs.
  2. Add the figs, sugar, balsamic vinegar, cardamom, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice to a medium saucepan.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
  4. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like.
  5. To test the consistency, place a small plate in the freezer before starting the jam. Spoon a small amount of jam onto the cold plate, then run the back of a spoon through the center. If the jam does not flow back together, it has reached the proper consistency.
  6. The jam will reach the gel stage at approximately 220°F. Check the temperature regularly near the end of cooking until the desired consistency is reached.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  8. Transfer the jam to a clean glass jar. Once cooled, cover with a lid and refrigerate.

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Jessica’s Notes

Best served with:

  • Brie, goat cheese, or cream cheese on crackers or crostini
  • English muffins or sourdough bread
  • Peanut butter sandwiches
  • Charcuterie boards
  • Roasted pork or chicken
  • Swirled into plain Greek yogurt

Prep Ahead:

  • Prepare up to 1 week in advance. The flavors deepen after resting overnight.

Storage:

  • Store in a clean, airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezer-Friendly:

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container for longer storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Variations:

  • Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a savory fig spread.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for a sweet-spicy version.
  • Substitute orange zest and juice for lemon for a warmer citrus flavor.
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans after cooking for texture.

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