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Flavorful Honey Fig Jam with Fresh Thyme

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A rich and earthy homemade jam combining the sweetness of honey, jammy figs, and the subtle herbaceous hint of fresh thyme. Perfect for toast, cheese platters, and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) fresh figs, ripe but firm (Black Mission figs recommended)
  • 1/3 cup (115g) raw honey (local wildflower honey preferred)
  • 34 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 pounds (900g) of fresh figs and pat dry. Cut off the stems and chop into quarters. Uneven pieces add nice texture to the jam. (About 10 minutes)
  2. In a medium saucepan, add the chopped figs, 1/3 cup (115g) honey, 1/4 cup (60ml) water, and the stripped leaves from 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme. Stir gently to mix. (2 minutes)
  3. Place the pan over medium-low heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the figs intact. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Figs will start to break down after 10-15 minutes.
  4. After about 20 minutes of simmering, stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and a pinch of sea salt. This balances sweetness and preserves the jam’s vibrant color. (1 minute)
  5. Continue simmering gently for another 15-20 minutes, stirring more frequently as it thickens. The jam is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and you can run your finger through it leaving a distinct path. (Total simmer time 35-40 minutes)
  6. Remove the thyme sprigs with tongs or a fork to avoid woody bits in the jar. (30 seconds)
  7. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. Seal tightly. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating. (10 minutes)

Notes

Use fresh figs for best flavor; dried figs can be rehydrated but will alter texture and taste. Keep heat low to avoid breaking figs into mush. Remove thyme sprigs before jarring to prevent woody bits. Skim foam if it appears for clearer jam. Lemon juice added mid-way helps with preservation and brightness. For vegan version, substitute honey with pure maple syrup or agave nectar. Jam flavors deepen after a day or two in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey fig jam, homemade jam, fresh thyme jam, easy jam recipe, fig preserves, natural sweetener, fruit jam, breakfast spread