If you’re searching for a deliciously sweet and slightly tangy spread that elevates your morning toast, sandwiches, or desserts, look no further than this homemade strawberry fig jam. Bursting with fresh flavors and a delightful texture, this jam marries the fragrant sweetness of ripe strawberries with the unique richness of figs. It’s a pairing you didn’t know you needed, and it’s incredibly simple to prepare!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This strawberry fig jam isn’t just any ordinary jam; it’s a culinary delight that brings together two fantastic fruits. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a delicious batch in no time.
- Unique Flavor Profile: The sweet and tart strawberries blend perfectly with the earthy notes of figs, creating a jam that’s truly unique.
- Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on toast, mix it into yogurt, use it as a filling for pastries, or even pair it with cheese for a delightful snack.
- Preserves Freshness: Making your own jam allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring no preservatives or unnecessary additives.
- Perfect for Gifting: Jars of homemade jam make lovely gifts for friends and loved ones!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this exquisite strawberry fig jam, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped: Fresh, ripe strawberries are key to achieving that sweet burst of flavor.
- 2 cups figs, stemmed and chopped: Use fresh figs if available, or dried figs can work in a pinch, but add a bit of water for moisture.
- 2 cups sugar: For sweetness and to help with the gel-like consistency.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds acidity, balancing the sweetness of the fruits with a refreshing zing.
- 1 packet pectin: This helps to thicken the jam, giving it that perfect spreadable texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making strawberry fig jam is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to create your own delicious batch:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by washing your strawberries under cool water. Remove the stems and cut them into small pieces. If you’re using fresh figs, similarly chop them into small chunks. Both fruits should be as uniformly sized as possible for even cooking.
2. Combine Fruits in a Pot
In a large pot, combine the chopped strawberries and figs. Pour in the lemon juice and half of the sugar (1 cup). Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the fruits to release their natural juices.
3. Add Pectin
Sprinkle the pectin over the fruit mixture evenly and stir well. This ensures it distributes uniformly, which is essential for the jam to thicken properly.
4. Cooking the Jam
Place the pot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir it frequently to prevent sticking. Once it reaches a boil, add the remaining sugar while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to boil steadily for about 10-15 minutes.
Use a candy thermometer if you have one; you’re looking for a temperature of about 220°F (105°C) for the perfect jam thickness.
5. Test for Consistency
To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it—if it holds its shape and doesn’t run back together, it’s ready!
6. Fill Sterilized Jars
While the jam is still hot, carefully pour it into sterilized jars. Leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. Seal them with clean lids and rings.
7. Water Bath Processing (Optional)
If you plan to store your jam for an extended time, you can process the jars in a water bath. Submerge the jars in a pot of boiling water and let them process for about 10 minutes. This helps to create a vacuum seal.
8. Cool and Store
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, you should hear a “pop” indicating that the jar has sealed. Store your strawberry fig jam in a cool, dark place. If you skip the water bath, keep it refrigerated.
Serving and Storage Tips
Once you’ve made your strawberry fig jam, consider these serving and storage tips:
Serving Suggestions
- Spread on Toast: Serve with butter or cream cheese for a delicious breakfast treat.
- Cheese Pairing: This jam pairs beautifully with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
- Yogurt Swirl: Swirl it into yogurt for a naturally sweet and fruity snack.
- Cocktail Mixer: Use it as a mixer in cocktails or as a topping for dessert.
Storage Instructions
Store your jam in a cool, dark area if sealed properly. Unopened, it can last up to a year. Once opened, keep it in the fridge and consume within 2-3 weeks. If you notice any signs of spoilage, like off-smells or mold, discard it immediately.
Helpful Tips
- Choosing Fruits: Fresh fruits yield the best flavor, but ensure they are ripe to avoid bitterness.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet jam; however, sugar does aid in preservation.
- Texture Preference: For a smoother jam, consider blending the fruits before cooking, but some prefer a chunkier texture.
- Add Spices: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen strawberries and figs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fruits, but ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before combining them in the pot.
How can I substitute for pectin?
If you don’t have pectin, you can make a natural pectin by boiling apple cores and peels or using apple juice, but this may alter the texture and sweetness of your jam.
How do I know if my jam is properly sealed?
A properly sealed jar will have a concave lid and won’t flex when pressed in the center. If the lid pops back up, it hasn’t sealed correctly.
Can I can this jam for long-term storage?
Absolutely! Processing your jars in a water bath is an effective way to ensure your jam lasts for up to a year on a shelf.
What can I do with leftover figs?
To avoid waste, leftover figs can be dried, used in salads, or blended into smoothies for added nutrition.
Conclusion
This strawberry fig jam is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fantastic way to preserve garden freshness in a jar. It’s an easy project that delivers commendable results, and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again. Slather it on a warm biscuit, or serve it at your next gathering, and watch as it instantly becomes a favorite among friends and family. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the delightful process of making your very own jam; it’s a sweet addition that can brighten up any meal!
Now that you’re equipped with this delightful recipe, go ahead and give it a try! Feel free to share your experiences and variations of this jam in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Delicious Strawberry Fig Jam Unleash Bold Flavors Today
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
Description
Unleash bold flavors with our delicious strawberry fig jam Perfect for spreading baking or savoring Elevate your taste experience today
Ingredients
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 cups figs, stemmed and chopped
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 packet pectin
Instructions
- Begin by washing your strawberries under cool water. Remove the stems and cut them into small pieces.
- In a large pot, combine the chopped strawberries and figs. Pour in the lemon juice and half of the sugar (1 cup). Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the fruits to release their natural juices.
- Sprinkle the pectin over the fruit mixture evenly and stir well.
- Place the pot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir it frequently to prevent sticking. Once it reaches a boil, add the remaining sugar while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to boil steadily for about 10-15 minutes.
- To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it—if it holds its shape and doesn’t run back together, it’s ready!
- While the jam is still hot, carefully pour it into sterilized jars. Leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. Seal them with clean lids and rings.
- If you plan to store your jam for an extended time, you can process the jars in a water bath.
- Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 50 calories
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Protein: 0.2g