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Homemade Rustic Fig Jam with Vanilla Bean

homemade rustic fig jam - featured image

A thick and rustic fig jam with chunks of figs and a warm, fragrant hint of vanilla bean, perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) fresh figs, ripe but firm
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse about 2 pounds (900g) of fresh figs under cool water. Remove stems and quarter each fig, leaving some pieces larger for rustic texture.
  2. Split one vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the tiny black seeds with the back of your knife. Set both seeds and pod aside.
  3. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the figs, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, vanilla seeds, and pod. Toss in a pinch of sea salt if using.
  4. Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce to low and simmer uncovered for about 40-50 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking or burning.
  5. After about 45 minutes, test the jam by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s ready; if not, continue simmering and testing every 5 minutes.
  6. Remove the vanilla pod and discard once the jam has thickened.
  7. Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it into clean glass jars. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Do not over-stir to keep fig chunks intact. Use medium-low heat to avoid burning. Skim off foam during cooking for a clear jam. Test doneness with the spoon test or candy thermometer (220Β°F/104Β°C). Remove vanilla pod before storing. Store jam in clean, sterilized jars for longer shelf life.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, homemade jam, rustic jam, vanilla bean jam, sweet spread, fig recipe, easy jam recipe