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Easy Small Batch Fresh Fig Preserves Recipe with Vanilla Bean for Perfect Homemade Jams

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A simple, small batch fig preserves recipe featuring fresh figs and vanilla bean for a rich, thick, and flavorful homemade jam. Perfect for quick preparation and ideal for gifting or personal enjoyment.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 grams) fresh figs, ripe but firm (Black Mission or Kadota recommended)
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 pounds (900 g) of fresh figs gently under cool water. Trim off the stems and quarter the figs into bite-sized pieces. No peeling needed.
  2. Using a sharp knife, split 1 vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the tiny seeds. Set both seeds and pod aside. If using vanilla extract, wait to add it later.
  3. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the chopped figs, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup (60 ml) water, and the vanilla seeds plus pod. Stir gently to mix everything.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the figs soften, gently mash some pieces against the pan to release juices. Cook about 30-40 minutes.
  5. Monitor the jam consistency by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering and stirring gently.
  6. Remove the vanilla bean pod. If using vanilla extract, stir in 1 teaspoon now and mix well.
  7. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch (6 mm) headspace. Seal with lids and allow jars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Notes

Keep heat moderate to prevent scorching. Stir gently to maintain some fig texture. Use the chilled plate test to check jam set. Vanilla bean adds subtle flavor; vanilla extract can be used as an alternative added at the end. For long-term storage, consider water bath canning. Jam thickens as it cools. Small batches yield better texture and flavor consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig preserves, fresh fig jam, vanilla bean jam, homemade preserves, small batch jam, easy fig jam, fruit preserves, vanilla fig preserves

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/easy-small-batch-fresh-fig-preserves-recipe-with-vanilla-bean-for-perfect-homemade-jams/