Description
This rich Mediterranean fig jam combines fresh ripe figs with a blend of warm spices and a hint of citrus for a deeply flavorful spread. Sweetened naturally with honey and sugar, this jam is perfect for pairing with cheeses, toast, or desserts. The slow simmering technique allows the flavors to meld, creating a thick, aromatic preserve that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit and Sweeteners
- 2 lbs fresh ripe figs, roughly chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
Citrus and Spices
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Additional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Figs: Begin by washing the figs thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Chop the Figs: Remove the stems using a sharp knife, then roughly chop the figs into small pieces. Transfer the chopped figs to a large saucepan.
- Add Sweeteners and Citrus: Add sugar, honey, lemon juice, and grated lemon zest to the saucepan with the figs. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Spices and Water: Place the saucepan over medium heat and add the cinnamon stick, ground cloves, ground allspice, freshly ground black pepper, and water to the mixture.
- Bring to a Boil: Stir occasionally and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely into the liquid.
- Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 45-60 minutes. Stir frequently, gently mashing the figs with the back of a spoon, allowing the jam to thicken to the desired consistency.
- Remove the Cinnamon Stick: Once thickened, carefully remove the cinnamon stick from the jam.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, enhancing the jam’s aromatic profile.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the jam to cool slightly before handling.
- Jar the Jam: Spoon the warm jam carefully into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly with their lids.
- Store Properly: Allow the jam to cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate or store in a cool, dark place for longer shelf life.
Notes
- Ensure figs are ripe for optimal sweetness and texture.
- Regular stirring during simmering prevents the jam from burning or sticking to the pan.
- The combination of spices provides a warm, slightly spicy flavor unique to Mediterranean preserves.
- Use sterilized jars to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
- This jam pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta, as well as on warm toast or yogurt.
- For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender after cooking, but this recipe retains some fig chunks for added texture.
