Nothing beats homemade fig jam to enhance your breakfasts and afternoon snacks!
Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this traditional recipe allows you to fully enjoy the authentic taste of figs.
In a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious jam that combines sweetness and health benefits.
Fig jam: Grandma's recipe
Imagine a slice of crusty bread, generously topped with this homemade fig jam, a sweet pleasure that delights the taste buds from the morning.
Simple to make and full of flavor, this jam will quickly become a go-to for indulgent moments, whether at breakfast or afternoon tea.
To do it effectively you will need:
- A large saucepan or pot
- A skimmer
- Sterilized jam jars
- A ladleful
- 1 kg of ripe, fresh figs (Choose juicy ones to guarantee a rich taste and perfect consistency.)
- 600 grams of sugar (Adjust according to the natural sweetness of the figs (you can reduce it to 500 g if the figs are very sweet).)
- 1/2 lemon (juice) (Add a touch of acidity that balances the sugar and helps preserve the jam.)
- 1 vanilla pod (For an extra aromatic note, especially if you appreciate a delicate fragrance.)
- Preparing the figs : Wash the figs in cold water, then remove the stems. Cut the figs into pieces (without peeling them).
- Maceration : In a saucepan, combine the figs with the sugar and lemon juice. Add the vanilla bean, split lengthwise, if you wish to flavor the jam. Let it macerate for about 1 hour. This allows the figs to release their juices.
- Cooking : Heat the mixture over low heat until it boils. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. If the jam foams, skim off any scum. The jam is ready when the figs are well candied and the texture has thickened.
- Jarring : Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars using a ladle. Close the jars immediately, then turn them upside down for a few minutes to seal them tightly.
- Cooling : Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before storing them in a cool, dry place.
| Nutritional Value (per 100g of jam) | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Proteins | 1 g |
| Lipids | 0.2 g |
| Fibers | 3 g |
| Sugars | 56 g |
What should I eat it with?
There are many ways to accompany this delicious fig jam! Try it on a slice of toasted wholemeal bread : the crispness of the bread and the sweetness of the figs create a perfect combination for a healthy and comforting breakfast.
If you enjoy contrasting flavors, pair it with goat cheese. The sweetness of the jam and the strength of the goat cheese make an irresistible combination.
You can also incorporate it into plain yogurt for a quick and balanced snack, or spread itgenerously on pancakes or crepes for a delicious brunch that will please the whole family.
The benefits of this fig jam
Rich in fiber, it helps maintain good digestion and naturally regulate bowel movements. Thanks to its antioxidant content, particularly polyphenols, it protects your cells against oxidative stress and supports your health.
It is also an excellent source of energy, perfect for starting the day off right, while avoiding industrial products full of additives.
And that's not all: figs are rich in vitamins B6 and C, which strengthens your immune system while offering you a little gourmet pleasure.
Answers to help you prepare as best as possible!
Do you need to peel the figs before cooking them?
No need! The thin, edible skin of the figs adds texture to your jam.
Keeping the skin on simplifies preparation and saves time. For 1 kg of figs, simply leave the skin on for a better consistency.
How much sugar should be used?
is recommended for 1kg of figs.
If you find your figs very sweet, you can reduce to 500g, but remember that sugar helps preserve the jam.
How do you know when the jam is ready?
Here's a simple trick: pour a drop of jam onto a cold plate.
If it sets, it's ready! Otherwise, continue cooking for a little longer. For 1 kg of figs, allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour of cooking time.
How to properly store jam?
Once your jars are filled and hermetically sealed, your jam will keep for several months in a cool, dry place.
Plan on using 250ml or 500ml glass jars, which are easy to find in stores.
Can other ingredients be added to vary the flavors?
Of course! You can, for example, add a vanilla pod (around €3 to €5), lemon zest, or even a little cinnamon for an even more indulgent aroma.
Why add lemon to jam?
To balance the sweetness of the figs and help the jam set. In addition, it contributes to better preservation.
Is it possible to make jam without sugar?
If you are looking to reduce sugar, you can try coconut sugar or a sweetener.
However, with less sugar, the jam won't keep as long. You can try sugar-free jam recipes, but the texture will be different.
How long does it take to sterilize the jars?
To ensure proper preservation, immerse your jars in boiling water for 10 minutes before filling them with jam. This will prevent any unpleasant surprises.
Can frozen figs be used?
If you don't have fresh figs on hand, frozen figs work perfectly!
Defrost them before using. The price for 1 kg of frozen figs varies between €6 and €8.
How can you prevent jam from being too runny?
If you find your jam too thin, you can cook it again or add a little natural pectin. Check the consistency during cooking using the cold plate test.
Thank you for the recipe!
My son loves it. Have a good day!