The Fig Jam Hack You Need To Know

Is fig jam a must-have treat to keep stocked in your pantry? Most people don't think of figs initially when it comes to jams and jellies due to all the seeds, but like raspberry jam that crackles like fireworks between your teeth, fig jam is a perfect condiment to slather on toast, pair with goat cheese tarts, or simply eat by the spoonful. Honestly, ripe figs are perfect for turning into a jam because of their naturally soft flesh and gorgeous colors, ranging from verdant greens to wine-dark purples.

Fig jam is not easy or cheap to find in stores and as such, it is oftentimes made at home using simply fruit, sugar, lemon juice, and water (via Food & Wine). Unfortunately, it takes quite a few figs to make a very small amount of jam and requires quite a bit of sugar. Jam-making at home can also be a sticky business and time-consuming, especially if you are only planning to use a little fig jam for your personal breakfast.

Luckily, there's a great hack to speed up the process.

Making the effort to concoct your own jam may seem like a bit much, but if you still want to enjoy the ripe flavor of figs, Bon Appétit suggests grating them. If you find yourself with super soft, super ripe figs ready to eat, take a box grater and have at it. Grate your figs in circular motions over toast, bagels, or ice cream — the possibilities are endless. You use less time, fewer tools, and you will not have to consume so much refined sugar. It sounds like a win-win.

As for the kinds of figs you should consider grating, The Spruce Eats lists black Mission figs as not only beautiful in dark color but also succulently sweet and practically producing their own natural syrup. Another fig ripe for the grating is the Calimyrna fig. The Calimyrna has a green-gold hue and is known for its stunning pink interior. Aesthetically, these figs are sure to please the eye and enhance your dish.