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Easy Small-Batch Fig Jam Recipe with Vanilla Bean and Orange Zest for Perfect Homemade Flavor

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A quick and easy small-batch fig jam infused with vanilla bean and fresh orange zest, perfect for spreading on toast or serving with cheese. This recipe delivers rich, layered flavors with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh figs (about 450 grams), ripe and soft
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams), preferably organic cane sugar
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • Zest of 1 medium orange (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30 ml)
  • 1/4 cup water (60 ml)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the figs gently under cool water. Remove stems and chop into roughly 1/2-inch pieces.
  2. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise with a sharp paring knife. Scrape out the seeds and set both seeds and pod aside.
  3. Zest the orange carefully using a microplane or fine grater, avoiding the white pith. Measure about 1 tablespoon of zest and set aside.
  4. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped figs, sugar, vanilla seeds, and the scraped pod. Pour in the water and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often to prevent sticking.
  6. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until figs break down and mixture thickens.
  7. About 5 minutes before finishing, stir in the orange zest to keep it fresh and bright.
  8. Test the jam consistency by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Let cool for a minute, then push gently with your finger. If it wrinkles and holds shape, the jam is ready; if not, cook a few minutes longer.
  9. Remove the vanilla bean pod before transferring the jam to jars.
  10. Pour jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving a little headspace. Let cool completely at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.

Notes

Stir often to prevent sticking and scorching. Use low to medium heat for best results. Test jam set with the spoon test on a chilled plate. The jam thickens further as it cools. For vegan version, substitute sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup. Vanilla extract can be used instead of vanilla bean. Lemon zest can substitute orange zest if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, homemade jam, vanilla bean jam, orange zest jam, small-batch jam, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/easy-small-batch-fig-jam-recipe-with-vanilla-bean-and-orange-zest-for-perfect-homemade-flavor/