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Perfect Fig Jam Recipe with Brown Sugar and Rosemary for Cheese Boards

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A simple and delicious fig jam infused with brown sugar and fresh rosemary, perfect for elevating cheese boards and snacks with a sweet-savory balance.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds fresh figs, ripe but firm
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed (light brown sugar preferred)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped (stems removed)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the figs (10 minutes): Rinse fresh figs under cold water, pat dry, then remove stems. Chop into quarters or smaller pieces (about 1/2 inch chunks). Set aside.
  2. Cook the figs (10 minutes): In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped figs with 1/4 cup water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Add sugar and rosemary (5 minutes): Stir in 3/4 cup brown sugar and finely chopped rosemary. Continue simmering gently, stirring often until the mixture thickens slightly and darkens as sugar caramelizes.
  4. Add lemon juice and salt (2 minutes): Pour in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
  5. Simmer until thickened (15-20 minutes): Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring every few minutes. The jam should thicken until it coats the back of a spoon and fig pieces are tender but not mushy. Mash some chunks gently if a smoother texture is desired.
  6. Optional vanilla boost (1 minute): Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract off the heat for added depth.
  7. Cool and store: Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Transfer to sterilized glass jars and refrigerate. Jam will thicken further as it cools.

Notes

Use ripe but firm figs to avoid mushy jam. Stir regularly to prevent burning. Adjust rosemary amount to taste; remove woody stems before chopping. Jam thickens as it cools, so do not overcook. For smoother jam, mash chunks or pulse in a food processor after cooking. Sterilize jars before storing to preserve freshness. Jam keeps refrigerated for up to 3 weeks and freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, brown sugar jam, rosemary jam, cheese board jam, homemade jam, easy jam recipe, vegan jam, gluten-free jam