Easy Strawberry-Fig Preserves Recipe (no pectin)

homemade-Strawberry-fig-preserves-recipe

Easy Strawberry-Fig Preserves Recipe (no pectin)

These Strawberry Fig Preserves Recipe (without pectin) are made with only four simple ingredients and will take less than 30 minutes to cook. This easy recipe will help you achieve perfectly preserved figs to enjoy for days. Try them on toast, cheese platters, as a filling or topping for desserts, or even as a gift!

5 from 17 votes

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Course: Spreads

Cuisine: Latin

Keyword: fig preserves, fig recipes, homemade fruit preserves, homemade jam, strawberry preserves, strawberry recipes

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 30

Total Time: 40

Servings: half pint jars (8 oz each)

Calories: 419kcal

Author: Juyali (ju-ja-lee)

Equipment

Measuring spoons- Measuring cups- Cutting board- Sharp knife- A large saucepan or large pot (stainless steel preferred)- A wooden spoon or spatula- Lemon zester- Glass canning jars and lids (I use half pint jars)- Potato masher or Food Processor (optional) if you want a smoother texture.

Ingredients

1 pound Fresh Strawberries
1 pound Fresh Figs
1 cup White Sugar
2 tablespoons Lemon juice
1 teaspoon Lemon Zest

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit: Begin by prepping the strawberries and figs. Wash, hull, and cut the strawberries into small pieces (approximately 16 small pieces). Wash the figs, remove the stems, and cut each into small pieces (about 16 small pieces).
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients: In a large saucepan, place figs, strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir gently to coat the fruit evenly.
Step 3: Cook on Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, lower the heat to medium and continue cooking uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. The fruit will break down and soften, and the mixture will thicken.
Step 4: Adjust Sugar to Taste: Taste the preserves and adjust the sugar level according to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter jam, add more sugar gradually, stirring until dissolved.
Step 5: Check for consistency: The fruit softens and slightly dissolves as it cooks, creating a lovely rustic texture. If you prefer the preserves to be a little softer, use a potato masher or do a few whirls with an immersion blender to gently break down the pieces of fruit.

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Notes

Brown Sugar as a substitute: You can replace some or all white sugar with brown sugar for a richer, caramelized flavor. Brown sugar will add slightly more moisture to the mixture.

How to convert these preserves into Strawberry Fig Jam recipe:

For those seeking a delicious strawberry fig jam without added pectin, follow these simple modifications:

Increase the sugar: Since sugar provides thickness, increase the recipe from 1 to 2 cups of sugar.
Cooking time: You may have to cook the mixture longer, approximately an extra 15-20 minutes to reach the right thickness of jam.
Use a food processor to transform the mixture into a smooth jam-like consistency. After the cooked mixture has cooled down, blend in a food processor for a few seconds until the desired texture.

To ensure the longevity of your homemade strawberry-fig preserves, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerated Storage: Properly sealed in glass jars (best way) or airtight containers and refrigerated, the preserves should last up to 3 weeks. Label the jars with the date they were made.
Freezer Storage: For extended storage, freeze the preserves in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.
Leave a 1/2-inch headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Freeze the preserves uncovered until they are completely solid, then add the lid. Freezing in glass jars is also acceptable if you follow the same procedure. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Storing and freezing your strawberry fig preserves properly ensures they remain fresh and delicious.

Recipe variations:

Maple Syrup: Replace half the white sugar with maple syrup for a richer, caramelized flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: Add one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to enhance the preserves with tanginess and sophistication. It'll give your spread a lovely depth of flavor.

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