Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe

I absolutely love this Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe because it brings together the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries with the rich, complex flavor of figs, balanced by a touch of balsamic vinegar that adds just the right tang. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for when you want something homemade but you’re short on time.

When I first made this jam, I was blown away by how the flavors melded so perfectly—it’s like summer packed into a jar. You’ll find that this jam works beautifully on toast, scones, or even paired with a creamy cheese for an elegant appetizer. Trust me, once you try this Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe, it’ll become your go-to for gifting or treating yourself.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe complement each other beautifully, creating a jam that’s naturally sweet with a hint of tartness and a subtle rich backdrop from the balsamic vinegar. When shopping, always pick ripe, fresh fruits for the best flavor and texture.

• Fresh Figs: Look for ripe figs that are soft but not mushy—these add a lovely texture and sweetness.
• Strawberries: Choose bright red, fragrant strawberries for maximum flavor.
• Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works best to balance the fruit’s natural acidity.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal for brightness and helps the jam set well.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a subtle complexity and depth without overwhelming the fruit.

Variations

I love how versatile this Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe can be! Feel free to adapt it to your taste or dietary preferences—it’s all about making it your own and enjoying the process in your kitchen.

• Less Sweet Version: I sometimes cut back on the sugar by one-quarter and let the natural fruit sweetness shine, which works well if your figs and strawberries are super ripe.
• Herbal Twist: Adding a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme during cooking creates a lovely aromatic note—my family digs this unexpected flavor boost.
• Spiced Kick: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for warm undertones, especially delicious in colder months.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegan, so no tweaks needed—just make sure any sweeteners you use align with your diet.

How to Make Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Fruit Like a Pro

Start by washing your strawberries and figs thoroughly. Then slice off the stems and chop the fruit into small bite-sized pieces—cut the strawberries in halves or quarters if they’re large, and do the same with the figs. This size helps the fruit break down evenly while cooking, giving your jam a nice texture without big chunks that might be hard to spread.

Step 2: Cook the Fruit and Sugar Gently

Place your chopped strawberries and figs into a large saucepan, then add the sugar and lemon juice. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture thickening and the fruit breaking down—stir occasionally but gently to avoid smashing too much.

Step 3: Add the Balsamic Vinegar Just Before Finishing

When your jam is nearly done cooking and has thickened to your liking, stir in the balsamic vinegar. Adding it at this stage keeps its vibrant tang and deep flavor intact without cooking off its brightness. This little ingredient is what makes this Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe truly stand out.

Step 4: Test for the Perfect Jam Consistency

Here’s the trick I learned: drop a spoonful of the hot jam onto a chilled plate (pop it in your freezer ahead of time). Wait a minute, then push gently with your finger. If the jam wrinkles slightly and doesn’t run, it’s ready. If it’s too runny, keep simmering for a few more minutes and test again. This is the easiest way to make sure your jam sets just right.

Step 5: Jar Your Jam Safely

Using a ladle, carefully fill sterilized jars, leaving about a quarter-inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a good seal, then place lids on and tighten. If you want shelf-stable jam, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, making sure the jars are covered by at least an inch of water. Then remove and cool jars upside down for at least 12 hours—checking that the lid is sealed by pressing the center; it shouldn’t pop back up.

How to Serve Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe

Garnishes

When I serve this jam, I like to add a few fresh fig slices or a sprig of mint on top, especially if it’s going alongside cheeses. The fresh garnish brightens up the presentation and ties the flavors together beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Strawberry Fig Jam pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or buttery scones for breakfast. For savory pairings, try it with a charcuterie board, creamy goat cheese, or a warm baked brie—my family goes crazy for those combinations!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve small jars as gifts, tied with twine and a handwritten label. Another fun idea is to spread the jam on puff pastry squares topped with a bit of ricotta and a drizzle of honey for a fancy appetizer that’s easy to make ahead.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once opened, store your Strawberry Fig Jam in the refrigerator, where it keeps beautifully for about 3 to 4 weeks. I’ve found that keeping it tightly sealed and using a clean spoon each time helps maintain freshness and prevents spoilage.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch and save some for later, freezing is a great option. I freeze smaller portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars, and the jam retains its vibrant flavor and texture once thawed.

Reheating

If your jam thickens too much in the fridge or freezer, gently warm it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until it softens to your liking. This trick helps if you want it spreadable for toast or as a sauce accompaniment.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe has become a personal favorite of mine—not just because it tastes amazing, but because it’s something I can make easily and share with family and friends. It turns everyday breakfasts and appetizers into little celebrations. I highly recommend you give it a try; you might just find that homemade jam is easier and more rewarding than you ever expected!

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