A cozy morning scene with toast and a jar of fig preserves on a wooden

Fig Preserves

Fig jam is endlessly versatile. Beyond the cheese board, we have included some tasty ideas below to inspire you!

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 lemon,  thickly sliced, seeded
1 1/2 pounds fresh ripe figs, halved (about 4 cups)
2 1/4 cups sugar
1 cinnamon stick, about 3 inches
2 teaspoons fresh ginger root, peeled and minced
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

METHOD:

In a food processor bowl, place sliced and seeded lemon half. Pulse to chop lemon finely. Add figs to processor bowl and pulse until figs are coarsely pureed.

Transfer the fig mixture to a heavy large saucepan. Add sugar, cinnamon stick, ginger, and ground cloves. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until mixture thickens to jam consistency, stirring often for about 20 minutes. Discard cinnamon stick. Divide hot preserves among hot sterilized jars. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 months.

YIELD: 3 1/2 cups

Delicious Ways to Use Fig Jam

  • Grilled Cheese Supreme – Spread fig jam on sourdough and pair it with Fontina, white cheddar, or Gouda for a melty, sweet-savory twist.

  • Sandwich Spread – A smear of fig jam adds instant depth to turkey, ham, or veggie sandwiches.

  • Pizza Base – Use it instead of tomato sauce for a gourmet flatbread — top with arugula, prosciutto, or goat cheese.

  • Savory Glaze – Brush over pork roasts, tenderloin, or grilled chicken for a caramelized finish.

  • Roasted Veggies – Toss carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes with olive oil and fig jam before roasting. Finish with a pinch of flaky salt.

  • Salad Dressing – Shake together 1/4 cup jam, 2 tablespoons white balsamic, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1/3 cup olive oil. Season, shake, and drizzle.

  • Yogurt Mix-In – Stir into Greek yogurt, then add crunchy granola.

  • Homemade Gift – A jar of fig jam makes a thoughtful present for friends, neighbors, teachers, or hosts.

For another delicious version of fig jam, see Fig Balsamic Jam recipe.

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