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Homemade Rustic Fresh Fig Jam Recipe with Vanilla Bean and Lemon Zest

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A quick and easy homemade rustic fresh fig jam with vanilla bean and lemon zest, perfect for beginners and packed with sweet, tangy, and fragrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 grams) fresh figs, ripe but firm (Black Mission or Kadota figs recommended)
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped out (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon pectin (optional, for thicker jam)

Instructions

  1. Rinse fresh figs gently under cold water. Remove the stems and quarter each fig into bite-sized pieces. (Prep time: 10 minutes)
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the figs, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and water. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the pot; toss in the pod itself for extra flavor. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
  3. Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring often to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir regularly to prevent sticking. Cook for 40-45 minutes until figs break down and mixture thickens.
  4. After about 30 minutes, test the jam’s thickness by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it’s ready. If thicker jam is desired, continue simmering or add a tablespoon of pectin and cook a few more minutes. Remove the vanilla pod before bottling.
  5. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving a little headspace. Seal with lids and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating. (Cooling time: 1-2 hours)

Notes

Use figs that are ripe but firm to avoid runny jam. Stir frequently to prevent burning, especially near the end. Remove the vanilla bean pod before bottling to avoid stringy bits. For thicker jam, add pectin if desired. Sterilize jars properly to prevent spoilage. Refrigerate after opening and consume within three weeks or freeze for up to six months.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, homemade jam, rustic jam, vanilla bean jam, lemon zest jam, fresh fig recipe, easy jam recipe, beginner jam recipe

Find it online: https://sunnysavory.com/homemade-rustic-fresh-fig-jam-recipe-with-vanilla-bean-and-lemon-zest-perfect-for-beginners/