Top Health Benefits of Whole Fig Jam You Need to Know

Fig jam offers a delightful combination of natural sweetness and beneficial nutrients. Figs themselves are an excellent source of dietary fiber, helping to support digestive health and promote regular bowel movements. They are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, and calcium, which contribute to bone health, immune function, and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. The high antioxidant content in figs, such as polyphenols, also helps to protect the body from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The sugar in the jam, while providing energy, is naturally occurring from the fruit, making it a more wholesome alternative to processed sugars. Additionally, the inclusion of rosewater and lemon juice in the recipe provides subtle amounts of vitamin C and other beneficial plant compounds that support skin health and immune function. When enjoyed in moderation, fig jam can be a delicious way to incorporate the nutritional benefits of figs into your diet.

Ingredients :

Fig : 500 g

Sugar : 2 Cup

Water : 1 Cup

Lemon Juice : 1 Tablespoon

Cardamom : 4 Piece

Rosewater : 1 Tablespoon

The sweet and fragrant delight of homemade fig jam - perfect for spreading on morning toast or enjoying with a cup of tea!

Recipe :

For 6 people

Step 1: Wash and Prepare the Figs

Rinse the figs carefully to clean them.
Remove the stems but leave the skin intact.

Step 2: Prepare the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine water and sugar and bring to a boil.
Allow the syrup to simmer until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture thickens.

Step 3: Add the Figs to the Syrup

Once the syrup is ready, add the prepared figs into the pot.
Reduce the heat to low and let the figs cook gently for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice, Cardamom, and Rosewater

Add fresh lemon juice, cardamom powder, and rosewater (optional) to the simmering mixture.
Stir the mixture and let it cook for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Check the Consistency

Once the jam thickens and the figs become soft and translucent, remove it from the heat.

Step 6: Cool the Jam

Allow the fig jam to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 7: Store the Jam

Transfer the cooled fig jam into a clean jar and store it in the refrigerator.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, your homemade fig jam is ready to be enjoyed with bread, toast, or as a topping for desserts.

Enjoy your delicious homemade fig jam!

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Whole Fig Jam

When preparing fig jam, it’s crucial to use ripe and fresh figs to ensure the best texture and flavor. Be careful when washing the figs to avoid damaging the delicate skin. While preparing the syrup, ensure that the sugar dissolves completely to avoid any crystallization, which can affect the consistency of the final jam. If you're opting to add spices like cardamom or rosewater, do so in moderation to avoid overpowering the natural taste of the figs. Also, it's important to cook the jam at a low heat to prevent burning or overcooking the fruit, which can affect the flavor and texture. After cooking, allow the jam to cool before transferring it to a clean jar to prevent contamination. Lastly, always store the fig jam in an airtight container and refrigerate it to ensure its longevity and preserve its fresh taste.

Nutritional Information and Diet Compatibility of Whole Fig Jam

While fig jam can be a delicious treat, it may not be suitable for all dietary preferences or needs. For individuals following a ketogenic diet, the high sugar content in fig jam can significantly impact ketosis, as it contains carbohydrates from both the fruit and added sugar. This makes it an unsuitable option for those who are strictly monitoring their carbohydrate intake. Similarly, people on a low-calorie diet may need to be cautious, as the added sugar contributes to the calorie count. For gluten-free and vegan diets, fig jam is generally appropriate, provided no animal-based additives are included. However, for those on a paleo diet, the jam might not fit due to the use of sugar, which is not considered acceptable on the paleo guidelines. Additionally, individuals following a DASH diet may need to consume fig jam sparingly, as its high sugar content could affect their sodium intake balance. It’s also essential for anyone with diabetes or managing their blood sugar levels to be cautious with portion sizes due to the natural sugars in the figs and the added sweeteners.