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Easy Small Batch Fig Jam Recipe with Cardamom and Vanilla Bean

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A simple and cozy small batch fig jam infused with cardamom and vanilla bean, perfect for beginners and ideal for spreading on toast or dolloping on yogurt.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh figs, rinsed and quartered
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split lengthwise to scrape seeds (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract as substitute)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • 1 teaspoon pectin (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound (450 grams) of fresh figs under cool water. Pat dry with a clean towel. Cut off the stems and quarter each fig.
  2. Lay the vanilla bean flat on your cutting board. Using the back of a knife, split it lengthwise to expose the seeds. Scrape out the tiny black seeds and set aside both seeds and pod.
  3. In a medium saucepan, add the quartered figs, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup water, the vanilla seeds and pod, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Place the pan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
  5. To test if the jam is set, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. After a minute, push it with your finger; if it wrinkles and doesn’t flood back, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering for another 5-10 minutes.
  6. Remove the vanilla bean pod once the jam reaches desired thickness.
  7. Optional: For a smoother texture, press the jam through a fine mesh strainer with the back of a spoon.
  8. Pour the hot jam into a clean jar or container. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Refrigerate and enjoy within 2 weeks.

Notes

Use ripe but firm figs to avoid overly soft jam. Slow and steady simmering prevents burning and helps develop flavor. Vanilla bean seeds add rich aroma and visual appeal. If jam is too runny, simmer longer or add 1 teaspoon pectin. Cardamom can be substituted with cinnamon or star anise. For a smoother jam, strain through a fine mesh strainer.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, small batch jam, cardamom jam, vanilla bean jam, homemade preserves, easy jam recipe, beginner jam recipe

Find it online: https://spoonmira.com/easy-small-batch-fig-jam-recipe-with-cardamom-and-vanilla-bean-perfect-for-beginners/