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Easy Small Batch Fig Jam Recipe with Vanilla Bean and Lemon Zest

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A quick and easy small batch fig jam infused with vanilla bean and lemon zest, perfect for beginners and ideal for gifting or enjoying on toast and cheese plates.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh figs, washed and quartered
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30 ml)
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped
  • 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
  • Optional: pinch of ground cinnamon or splash of balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Wash and gently pat dry about 1 pound (450 g) of fresh figs. Cut them into quarters, leaving the skins on.
  2. Split 1 vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the tiny seeds with the back of a knife. Set seeds and pod aside.
  3. Zest one medium lemon avoiding the white pith, then squeeze out 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of fresh lemon juice.
  4. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine quartered figs, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla bean seeds, and the scraped pod. Pour in 1/4 cup water and stir gently to combine.
  5. Place saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 30-35 minutes until figs break down and mixture thickens.
  6. Test jam consistency by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and doesn’t run back quickly, it’s done. If too runny, simmer longer.
  7. Remove vanilla pod and discard. Let jam cool slightly in the pan for 10 minutes.
  8. Pour warm jam into sterilized jar(s), seal, and let cool completely at room temperature. Store in refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Stir gently to keep some fig chunks intact. Use the cold plate test to check jam consistency. Vanilla pod can be rinsed and reused to infuse sugar. Honey can be added near the end to mellow tartness. Frozen figs can be used if fresh are unavailable. For smoother jam, pulse half the figs before cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, small batch jam, vanilla bean jam, lemon zest jam, homemade preserves, easy jam recipe, beginner jam recipe

Find it online: https://tastypierecipes.com/easy-small-batch-fig-jam-recipe-with-vanilla-bean-and-lemon-zest-perfect-for-beginners/