Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs (900g) fresh figs, stemmed and quartered
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp (5g) orange zest, finely grated
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt

Instructions:

  1. Combine the quartered figs, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla in a heavy-bottomed pot.
  2. Stir gently to coat the fruit and let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) to allow the figs to release their own syrup.
  3. Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Use a potato masher to lightly crush some of the figs, leaving some chunks for an artisanal texture.
  6. Simmer until the mixture thickens and reaches a syrupy consistency, usually 20-30 minutes.
  7. Perform the Plate Test: Drop a small spoonful of jam onto a frozen plate. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it is done.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in the salt and orange zest.
  9. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace, seal tightly, and let cool completely at room temperature.