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:
- Combine the quartered figs, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla in a heavy-bottomed pot.
- 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.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Use a potato masher to lightly crush some of the figs, leaving some chunks for an artisanal texture.
- Simmer until the mixture thickens and reaches a syrupy consistency, usually 20-30 minutes.
- 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.
- Remove from heat and stir in the salt and orange zest.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace, seal tightly, and let cool completely at room temperature.