Fig jalapeno jam is a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that can instantly elevate your culinary creations. This vibrant jam combines the natural sweetness of ripe figs with the fiery kick of jalapenos, creating a versatile condiment perfect for everything from breakfast toast to gourmet cheese boards.
Whether you’re a seasoned home canner or just looking to try a new twist on traditional jam, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.
Making fig jalapeno jam at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, preservative-free product bursting with flavor. The balance of sweetness, acidity, and heat makes it an excellent addition to sandwiches, grilled dishes, and even as a glaze for roasted vegetables or meats.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to preserve figs when they’re in season, turning them into a treasured pantry staple.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This fig jalapeno jam recipe stands out because it perfectly balances bold flavors with simplicity. It’s sweet yet spicy, tangy yet smooth, and incredibly versatile.
You don’t need any specialized equipment or ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it stores well and can be gifted during holidays or special occasions.
Using fresh figs and jalapenos gives the jam a vibrant color and authentic taste that’s hard to find in store-bought versions. The addition of lemon juice enhances the brightness and helps with preservation, while natural pectin ensures the jam sets beautifully.
If you love experimenting with homemade preserves or want to add a unique twist to your condiment collection, this fig jalapeno jam is a must-try. And once you’ve made it, be sure to explore other delicious recipes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide to pair with your jam!
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh ripe figs, stems removed and quartered
- 2-3 jalapeno peppers, finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (powdered)
- 1/2 cup water
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or jam pot
- Wooden spoon or heat-proof spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender (optional for smoother texture)
- Clean glass jars with lids for storing
- Ladle for transferring jam to jars
- Jar funnel (optional, but helpful)
Instructions
- Prepare the figs and jalapenos: Wash the figs thoroughly, remove stems, and quarter them. Finely chop the jalapenos, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
- Combine ingredients in saucepan: In your saucepan, add the figs, jalapenos, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and water. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, lower the heat to maintain a steady simmer.
- Add pectin: Slowly sprinkle the fruit pectin into the simmering mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to boil for 1-2 minutes until the jam thickens slightly.
- Check the consistency: To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s set. If not, cook for another minute and test again.
- Optional blending: If you prefer a smoother jam, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture carefully to your desired texture. Otherwise, leave it chunky for more rustic appeal.
- Sterilize jars: While the jam is cooking, sterilize your glass jars and lids by boiling them in water or running them through a dishwasher cycle.
- Fill jars and seal: Using a ladle and funnel, pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal tightly with lids.
- Process jars (optional for long-term storage): For shelf stability, process filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Otherwise, store jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Cool and label: Let jars cool completely at room temperature. Label with date and store in a cool, dark place or fridge.
Tips & Variations
“Adjust the jalapeno quantity based on your heat tolerance. Removing seeds will reduce spiciness without losing flavor.”
You can substitute half the sugar with honey or agave syrup for a more natural sweetness, but this may affect the set time and texture. Adding a vanilla bean pod during cooking infuses a subtle warmth that complements the figs wonderfully.
For a chunkier jam, avoid blending and chop the figs and peppers coarsely. If you want a smoother spread, blend to your preferred consistency.
Experiment with adding other spices like cinnamon or ginger for a unique twist.
Use ripe but firm figs to avoid overly watery jam. If using frozen figs, thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per 2 tbsp serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Vitamin C | 3% DV |
| Vitamin A | 2% DV |
| Iron | 1% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This fig jalapeno jam is incredibly versatile. Spread it on warm toast or bagels for a sweet and spicy breakfast treat.
It also pairs beautifully with cheeses like goat cheese, brie, or sharp cheddar on a charcuterie board.
Use it as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork, or stir a spoonful into salad dressings for an unexpected kick. It’s also fantastic as a condiment on sandwiches, burgers, or even stirred into plain yogurt for a sweet-spicy snack.
For more creative ways to enjoy your homemade jam, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or explore Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for portable meal ideas that pair well with jams and spreads.
Conclusion
Making your own fig jalapeno jam is a rewarding experience that brings a burst of homemade flavor to your pantry. This recipe is simple, flexible, and results in a deliciously balanced jam that’s both sweet and spicy.
Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or a way to enhance everyday meals, this jam fits the bill perfectly.
By using fresh ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can create a jam that’s free from preservatives and packed with natural goodness. Don’t forget to experiment with different spice levels and textures until you find your perfect match.
Once you’ve mastered this, be sure to try other amazing recipes like Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide or Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide to keep your kitchen adventures exciting!
📖 Recipe Card: Fig Jalapeno Jam
Description: A sweet and spicy jam combining ripe figs and jalapenos for a unique flavor. Perfect as a condiment or spread on toast and cheese boards.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 1 jar (about 1 1/2 cups)
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh figs, stemmed and chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine figs, jalapeno, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and ginger in a large saucepan.
- Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mash the figs slightly with a spoon to break them down.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Let the jam cool, then transfer to a sterilized jar and refrigerate.
Nutrition: Calories: 80 kcal | Protein: 0.5 g | Fat: 0.1 g | Carbs: 21 g
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