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Homemade Honey Fig Preserves with Thyme and Lemon

honey fig preserves - featured image

A delightful preserve combining the natural sweetness of figs and honey with herbal thyme and bright lemon zest, perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 grams) fresh figs, ripe but firm
  • 3/4 cup (240 ml) raw honey
  • 34 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the figs. Slice into quarters or halves, leaving some chunks for texture (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sliced figs, raw honey, water, lemon zest, lemon juice, and thyme sprigs. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Place the pan over medium-low heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 30-35 minutes until figs break down but still hold some shape and mixture thickens to a jammy consistency.
  4. Remove thyme sprigs. Taste and add a pinch of sea salt or more lemon juice if desired. Stir well.
  5. Ladle hot preserves into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch (6 mm) headspace. Let jars cool uncovered at room temperature for 30 minutes, then seal and refrigerate.
  6. Let preserves rest overnight for best flavor before serving.

Notes

Use ripe but firm figs to avoid mushy preserves. Simmer gently over low heat to prevent burning. Stir regularly to avoid sticking. Test set by placing a small dollop on a chilled plate. Remove thyme before bottling to avoid bitterness. For vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup. Store refrigerated up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey fig preserves, fig jam, homemade preserves, thyme preserves, lemon fig jam, easy preserves recipe, vegan preserves option