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Flavorful Homemade Fig Jam with Brown Sugar and Balsamic Vinegar

homemade fig jam - featured image

A quick and easy homemade fig jam recipe that combines fresh figs, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy spread perfect for toast, cheese boards, and gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds fresh figs, washed and quartered (or frozen figs, thawed and drained)
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed (200 g)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 pounds of fresh figs, pat dry, then cut into quarters. If using frozen figs, thaw completely and drain excess juice.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine quartered figs, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup water, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to coat figs in sugar.
  3. Place saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 25 minutes until figs soften and mixture thickens.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice to brighten and add complexity.
  5. Continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking, until jam thickens and looks glossy. Test set by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles, it’s ready.
  6. Optional: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a richer aroma.
  7. Remove from heat and let jam cool slightly. Pour into sterilized glass jars, seal tightly, and refrigerate once cooled. Jam will thicken further as it cools.

Notes

Use ripe figs for best sweetness. Stir often to prevent burning. The jam thickens as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems loose right off the stove. For a smoother texture, mash figs lightly during cooking. Adjust balsamic vinegar to taste. Store in refrigerator up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, homemade jam, brown sugar jam, balsamic vinegar jam, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves, vegan jam option