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Easy Balsamic Fig Jam Recipe with Rosemary

Easy Balsamic Fig Jam - featured image

A quick and easy homemade fig jam with a unique balsamic vinegar tang and fresh rosemary aroma, perfect for spreading on bread or pairing with cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 grams) fresh figs, ripe but firm, small to medium size
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 12 sprigs fresh rosemary, remove stems before storing
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 pounds (900 grams) of fresh figs under cold water, then gently pat dry. Trim stems and chop figs into quarters (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped figs, 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) water, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice, and 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary. Stir gently.
  3. Place pan over medium heat and bring mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 40-50 minutes until figs break down and mixture thickens. Use a lid tilted on the pot if jam splatters.
  4. Around 45 minutes in, test jam consistency by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate. Let cool for a minute, then push with finger. If it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s done; if not, cook a bit longer but avoid burning.
  5. Remove rosemary sprigs and discard. For smoother texture, press jam through a fine mesh strainer or briefly use an immersion blender. Pour hot jam into sterilized glass jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Seal immediately and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.

Notes

Do not skip the lemon juice as it helps the jam set naturally without pectin. Stir often to prevent burning, especially near the end. Use fresh rosemary for a brighter flavor and remove sprigs before jarring. Test jam set early to avoid overcooking. If fresh figs are unavailable, frozen figs can be used but expect softer texture. For vegan or lower sugar option, substitute half sugar with maple syrup but jam consistency may vary.

Nutrition

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