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Perfect Balsamic Fig Jam Recipe Easy Homemade Jam for Cheese Boards

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A sophisticated and easy-to-make balsamic fig jam that balances sweet and tart flavors, perfect for elegant cheese boards and versatile for various uses.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh figs, ripe but firm
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean or extract
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

  1. Wash and prep the figs: Rinse about 1 pound (450 g) of fresh figs under cold water. Remove the stems and chop them into roughly 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) pieces.
  2. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add chopped figs, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup water, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Bring to a simmer: Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and burning. This takes about 5 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat and cook: Lower heat to medium-low and continue simmering, stirring every few minutes until the mixture thickens and reduces to a jammy texture, about 25-30 minutes.
  5. Test for doneness: Drop a spoonful of jam onto a cold plate and tilt it. If it wrinkles and doesn’t run quickly, it’s ready. If too thick, add a tablespoon of water and stir.
  6. Optional: Stir in chopped nuts or vanilla extract off the heat for added texture and aroma.
  7. Cool and store: Remove from heat and let cool about 30 minutes. Transfer to sterilized jars, seal, and refrigerate. Keeps up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning. Stir frequently and keep heat medium-low for best results. Lemon juice preserves color and balances sweetness. Optional nuts add texture. Can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup. Dried figs can be rehydrated and used if fresh figs are unavailable.

Nutrition

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