Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe

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If you adore the luscious sweetness of strawberries combined with the deep, earthy richness of figs, then Strawberry Fig Jam is going to become your new favorite indulgence. This jam balances fruity brightness with a touch of tangy balsamic and smooth vanilla, creating layers of flavor that dance on your tongue. Whether slathered on warm toast, dolloped next to creamy cheeses, or stirred into yogurt, this homemade Strawberry Fig Jam is a delightful way to brighten up any meal or snack with its fresh, sun-kissed essence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and half the magic of making Strawberry Fig Jam. These essentials bring together the perfect harmony of sweetness, acidity, and depth that this jam is loved for.

• Fresh Figs (2.2 pounds / 1 kg): Make sure they are ripe yet firm to add that perfect jammy texture.
• Strawberries (1 pound / 500g): Choose ripe, juicy berries for vibrant color and natural sweetness.
• Sugar (4 cups total): Acts as the natural preservative and sweetener that helps your jam set beautifully.
• Lemon Juice (about 3 tablespoons): The acidity balances sweetness and promotes gel formation.
• Balsamic Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle tangy complexity that brightens the jam’s flavor.
• Vanilla Bean or Extract (1 bean or 1 tablespoon extract): Imparts a warm, aromatic note that rounds out the fruitiness.

How to Make Strawberry Fig Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Begin by washing your fresh figs and strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems from both fruits and then chop them into small pieces—for figs, halving and then quartering works beautifully, and strawberries can be sliced similarly. This fine chopping ensures the jam has a luscious texture with just the right amount of fruit chunks to savor in every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Fruit with Sugar and Lemon

Place all the chopped strawberries and figs into a large saucepan. Add the sugar and lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium-low and let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering process thickens the mixture and blends the flavors into a harmonious jam.

Step 3: Add Balsamic Vinegar

Just before transferring your jam to jars, stir in the balsamic vinegar. This addition might seem small but it packs a punch, lending a subtle, tangy depth that elevates the Strawberry Fig Jam beyond a straightforward sweet spread. The vinegar also balances the jam’s sweetness, making every spoonful more exciting.

Step 4: Test for Doneness

To know when your jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. Then gently press it with your finger—if the surface wrinkles slightly, your jam has reached the perfect consistency. This simple test ensures that your jam will set well without being too runny or overly stiff.

Step 5: Jar and Seal

Carefully ladle the hot Strawberry Fig Jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth, then seal the jars with lids. For long-term storage and shelf stability, immerse jars in a boiling water bath for at least 10 minutes. After processing, flip the jars upside down to cool and seal for at least 12 hours to lock in freshness.

Step 6: Cooling and Storing

Once cooled, check that the seals are secure by pressing the center of each lid. They should not pop back. Jars that sealed properly can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year, while those that didn’t seal should be refrigerated immediately and consumed within a few weeks.

How to Serve Strawberry Fig Jam

Garnishes

Enhance your serving presentation by adding a sprig of fresh mint or a few thinly sliced figs on top of the jam. The vibrant green and natural fruit slices not only look inviting but also complement the jam’s complex flavors wonderfully, adding that final touch of freshness that excites the senses.

Side Dishes

Strawberry Fig Jam is incredibly versatile next to a range of dishes. It pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or buttery scones at breakfast, invites indulgence alongside a charcuterie board with prosciutto and cheeses, or makes an irresistible condiment for baked brie. Each pairing lets the jam’s sweet and tangy notes shine in different, delightful ways.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try swirling Strawberry Fig Jam into creamy yogurt or oatmeal as a naturally sweet breakfast upgrade. Alternatively, use it as a glaze for roasted meats such as chicken or pork to add a gourmet touch. You can even frost cupcakes or layer it between cake tiers for an unexpected burst of fruity flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once opened, keep your Strawberry Fig Jam tightly sealed and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for about three weeks, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it in various meals and snacks.

Freezing

If you want to extend the life of your jam even further, freezing is a great option. Just transfer small portions into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving space for expansion. Frozen jam can last up to six months without losing its distinctive flavor and texture.

Reheating

When thawing frozen jam, simply let it defrost overnight in the fridge. If you want a warm spread, heat gently on the stove while stirring carefully to restore that perfect spoonable consistency without breaking down the fruit.

FAQs

Can I use dried figs instead of fresh for Strawberry Fig Jam?

Fresh figs are best for this recipe because they provide the natural moisture and soft texture needed to create the jam’s perfect consistency. Dried figs can alter the texture and may require additional liquid, so it’s recommended to stick with fresh whenever possible.

Why do I add lemon juice to Strawberry Fig Jam?

Lemon juice adds essential acidity that helps the pectin in the fruit set the jam properly. It also balances the sweetness, ensuring the jam is bright and flavorful rather than overly sugary.

Is the balsamic vinegar necessary?

While optional, balsamic vinegar adds a lovely depth and complexity to the jam’s flavor profile. It enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit and provides a slight tang that lifts the overall taste to something uniquely delicious.

How long does homemade Strawberry Fig Jam last?

If processed and sealed correctly, unopened jars of this jam can last up to one year stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within three weeks for optimal freshness.

Can I omit vanilla in the Strawberry Fig Jam?

Yes, vanilla enhances the jam with warm, sweet undertones but isn’t essential. If you prefer a cleaner fruit taste or lack vanilla on hand, simply leave it out without impacting the jam’s overall success.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Strawberry Fig Jam is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and delivers a jar full of sunshine to brighten your days. It’s the kind of homemade treat that invites sharing and creates memorable moments at the table. Trust me, once you try this delicious recipe, Strawberry Fig Jam will become a treasured staple in your pantry, ready to add bursts of natural sweetness wherever you please. So grab your freshest figs, ripe strawberries, and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

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