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Homemade Small-Batch Black Mission Fig Jam with Vanilla Lemon

black mission fig jam - featured image

A quick and easy small-batch jam recipe featuring fresh black mission figs, vanilla bean, and lemon juice for a balanced, rich, and nuanced flavor perfect for gifting or small households.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) black mission figs, washed and quartered
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (about 1 lemon) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Rinse about 1 pound (450 g) of black mission figs and quarter them. No need to peel.
  2. Using a sharp knife, carefully split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the tiny seeds with the back of the knife. Set both seeds and pod aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, add the quartered figs, ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar, ¼ cup (60 ml) water, vanilla seeds, and the scraped pod. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for about 15 minutes until figs soften and release juices.
  5. Stir in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice. Continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Test for doneness by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s ready. If not, cook longer, checking every 5 minutes.
  7. Remove the vanilla pod to avoid bitterness.
  8. Pour the jam into a clean heatproof jar or canning jar. Let cool at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.

Notes

Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid burning. Stir frequently, especially towards the end. Remove vanilla pod before storing to prevent bitterness. For smoother jam, use a food mill or blender. Sterilize jars before use. Jam keeps refrigerated for up to 3 weeks and can be frozen for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: black mission fig jam, homemade jam, small-batch jam, vanilla fig jam, lemon fig jam, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves