How do you tell when a fig is ripe?

Ripe figs should be soft to the touch and slightly yield to gentle pressure. They should also have a sweet, fruity aroma. Avoid figs that are hard or have blemishes. The taste should be sweet and full of flavor.

Do you leave the skin on fresh figs?

Absolutely! It's packed with flavor and natural pectin.

How long do homemade fig preserves last in the fridge?

When stored properly, homemade fig preserves can last in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. The amount of sugar in a recipe can affect the shelf life since sugar acts as a preservative. Preserves with less sugar will have a shorter shelf life. The reduced sugar content in this recipe might result in a shorter shelf life compared to traditional fruit spreads that contain much sugar. It is essential to store the preserves in an airtight container in the fridge. If you see any signs of spoilage, such as mold or discoloration, discard the preserves. Here are some tips for storing homemade fig preserves: - Ensure the jars are clean and sterilized with boiling water before filling them with preserves. - Leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. - Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator . - Label the jars with the date they were made.

Fig Butter vs Fig Jam. What’s the difference?

Fig butter is a smoother, creamier, more spreadable version of fig preserves, typically made with cooked mashed figs, sugar, and spices. Fig jam , on the other hand, retains the texture of the fruit creating a more rustic texture.

Easy Homemade Fig Preserves Recipe (without Pectin)

Description

These Easy Homemade Fig Preserves Recipe without Pectin are simple and easy to make in less than an hour and require only four simple ingredients—a great way to preserve the flavors of fresh figs.

Spread on bread or pancakes to complement goat cheese on a cheese plate or cheese boards, pour over cream cheese, make it the star on a charcuterie board, or sneak into homemade fig newtons.
Enjoy every spoonful!

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds of FRESH FIGS (stems removed and rough ends cut) - Black mission figs are my favorite type of fig and work excellently for this recipe.

1 1/2 cup of LIGHT BROWN SUGAR - You can use any type of sugar in this recipe, but I prefer light brown sugar because it gives the preserves a richer flavor.

Juice from an ORANGE - For a delicious citrusy note.

2 teaspoons of ORANGE ZEST - For added aroma and flavor.

3 teaspoons of BALSAMIC VINEGAR - (It is optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor to the preserves.)

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Instructions

Prepare the Figs: Ensure your ripe figs are clean. Always cut off the stem. Wash the figs with cold water and gently pat dry.
Note: The entire fig is edible, from the thin skin to the red or purplish flesh and the myriad tiny seeds, but they can be peeled if you wish, although I do not recommend it.
Cut the Figs: Dice the figs into small pieces (about 1/2 inch).
Combine the Ingredients: In a medium to large pot, combine the figs, sugar, orange juice, orange zest and balsamic vinegar (if using). Stir well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.
Cook the Mixture: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to low heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.
Test for Doneness: Perform the spoon test. When the fig mixture has a jam-like consistency and coats the back of a spoon, it's ready!

Notes

Uses for fig preserves.
- Spread on bread or pancakes to complement goat cheese on a cheese plate or cheese boards, pour over cream cheese, make it the star on a charcuterie board.
- You can also use them to top ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal. Or get creative and use them in savory dishes to add flavor to a sauce or glaze for pork or chicken.
Storage: For the best results, store in sterilized jars. Cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Fig preserves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Here are some tips for storing homemade fig preserves:
- Ensure the jars are clean and sterilized with boiling water before filling them with preserves.
- Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
- Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator.
- Label the jars with the date they were made.
Tip for extending the shelf life of your homemade fig preserves:
Freeze the preserves if you want to store them for longer than 3 weeks. Transfer the preserves to freezer-safe containers and freeze them for 6 months. When ready to use them, thaw the preserves in the refrigerator overnight.