This Easy Fig Jam is a sweet blend of ripe figs, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or adding to your favorite cheese board!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Figs: The star of this recipe! Look for ripe, sweet figs. If fresh figs are unavailable, you can use dried figs. Just soak them in warm water to rehydrate before cooking.
Granulated Sugar: This is essential for sweetness and preservation. If you prefer less sugar, you can reduce it to 400g. For a healthier option, use honey or agave syrup, but keep in mind this may alter the taste.
Fresh Lemon: The lemon juice and zest brighten the jam’s flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, lemon juice from a bottle will work, or you might substitute with orange juice for a different citrus note.
Fresh Ginger (Optional): Adding ginger gives a lovely spice. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger can be a substitute, but use only half a teaspoon as it’s more potent.
How Do You Ensure Your Fig Jam is Perfectly Thick?
Thickening the jam is crucial for that perfect spreadable texture. Here are some steps to achieve this:
- Keep the heat to medium-low after it boils to avoid burning. Stir regularly.
- Look for bubbling and the mixture darkening in color. This indicates it’s reducing.
- Always do the plate test: drop a spoonful on a cold plate and check if it wrinkles—this means it’s set!
- If you find your jam isn’t thickening, you can add a teaspoon of pectin and cook for another 5-10 minutes.
With these tips, your fig jam will be delicious and just the right consistency! Enjoy your tasty creation!
Easy Fig Jam Inspired by Jamie Oliver
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 kg fresh ripe figs, washed and quartered
- 500 g granulated sugar
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup water
- (Optional) 1 small piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 30-40 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around an hour to make and jar your Fig Jam. Then, just allow it to cool down before enjoying it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Figs:
Start by placing the quartered figs into a large heavy-bottomed saucepan. This type of pan ensures even cooking and helps prevent sticking.
2. Add the Ingredients:
Next, add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and water to the figs. If you’re using fresh ginger for a little kick, toss that in too!
3. Let It Sit:
Give everything a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This step is important because it allows the figs to release some of their natural juices, making the jam even sweeter.
4. Cook the Mixture:
Now, place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to mix everything together. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently.
5. Thicken the Jam:
Let the jam cook for about 30-40 minutes. Stir often to prevent it from sticking or burning. As it cooks, the mixture should thicken and darken in color. This is your cue that it’s coming together nicely!
6. Test for Doneness:
To check if the jam is ready, take a small spoonful and place it on a cold plate. Wait a minute, then run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, congratulations—your jam is done!
7. Cool and Store:
Once it’s ready, remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool slightly. Then, pour it into sterilized jars while still warm. Seal them tightly and allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in the refrigerator.
8. Enjoy:
Your Fig Jam is now ready to delight your taste buds! Spread it on toast, pair it with cheese, or use it in any way you like as a sweet condiment. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Fig Jam Recipe
Can I Use Dried Figs Instead of Fresh Figs?
Yes, you can use dried figs! Just soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate before chopping and using them in the recipe. Keep in mind that dried figs are sweeter, so you might want to reduce the sugar slightly.
How Long Does the Fig Jam Last in the Refrigerator?
Properly sealed and stored in the refrigerator, your fig jam will last for up to three weeks. If you want it to last longer, consider canning it in sterilized jars for shelf-stable storage.
Can I Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar to about 400g if you prefer a less sweet jam. However, keep in mind that sugar also acts as a preservative, so reducing it may affect the jam’s longevity.
What Should I Do if My Fig Jam Isn’t Thickening?
If your jam isn’t thickening, you can add a tablespoon of pectin and continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, simmer the jam a bit longer to eliminate excess liquid until it reaches your desired consistency.
