Welcome to a culinary adventure where we explore the sweet, rich goodness of fig paste. Growing up, I always admired how figs transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary ones. 

Fig paste is not just a delightful spread; it’s a wonderful way to enhance cheeses, meats, and desserts. This recipe will guide you through creating your own fig paste, bringing a taste of tradition right into your kitchen.

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What is Fig Paste?

Fig paste is a sweet spread made primarily from figs and sugar. It blends fresh or dried figs into a smooth consistency, often enhanced with lemon juice or vanilla. 

This paste is versatile and pairs beautifully with cheese boards, toasted breads, and more. Its beauty lies in simplicity and the rich flavor it brings.

Why You’ll Love This Fig Paste Recipe

• Easy to make — no fancy equipment needed, just a blender and simple ingredients.
  
• Versatile — perfect for picnics, dinner parties, or quiet nights at home.
  
• Healthy — figs are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and homemade means no preservatives or artificial flavors.
  

Ingredients

• 12 ripe-but-firm fresh figs (or dried figs chopped if fresh unavailable)
  
• 500 g jam setting sugar (about 2 ¼ cups)
  
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Figs

Wash figs gently under cold water, pat dry, and slice off the stems. If using dried figs, chop into small pieces.

Step 2: Blend the Figs

Place figs in a blender or food processor and purée until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

Transfer purée to a saucepan. Add jam setting sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Heat the Mixture

Heat over medium, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer gently for 5–10 minutes to thicken.

Step 5: Test Consistency

Drop a spoonful on a plate, cool for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it holds shape, it’s done; if too runny, cook a few minutes longer.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Remove from heat, cool slightly, then transfer to sterilized jars. Let cool completely before sealing.

Tips & Tricks

• Choose plump, blemish-free figs that feel slightly soft.
  
• Cook on medium-low to prevent burning.
  
• Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of chili for flavor twists.
  
• Adjust sugar for sweetness preference.
  
• Always sterilize jars to prolong shelf life.
  

Nutrition Information (per tablespoon)

• Calories: 50
  
• Carbohydrates: 13g
  
• Fiber: 1g
  
• Sugars: 10g
  
• Protein: 0.2g
  
• Fat: 0.1g
  

Figs add fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestion and health.

Storage

Properly sealed fig paste lasts up to six months refrigerated. Keep jars dry and airtight.

What to Serve With Fig Paste

• Cheese boards (blue cheese, goat cheese, brie)
  
• Crostini or toasted baguette slices
  
• Glaze or topping for pork, duck, or roasted meats
  
• Dollop over vanilla ice cream
  
• Mixed into salad dressings or served alongside fresh salads
  

Variations

• Spiced Fig Paste: Add 1 tsp cinnamon + pinch nutmeg during cooking.
  
• Chili-Infused: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for subtle heat.
  
• Herbed: Stir in 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme.
  
• Citrus Zest: Add zest of 1 orange or lemon before cooking.
  
• Wine-Infused: Substitute some liquid with red or white wine.
  

Pamela Dunlap

Fig Paste Recipe

Welcome to a culinary adventure where we explore the sweet, rich goodness of fig paste. Growing up, I always admired how figs transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary ones.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Servings: 12

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 50

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 12 ripe-but-firm fresh figs or dried figs chopped if fresh unavailable
• 500 g jam setting sugar about 2 ¼ cups
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract optional

Equipment

• Blender, Spoon

Method

 

Step 1: Prepare the Figs

1. Wash figs gently under cold water, pat dry, and slice off the stems. If using dried figs, chop into small pieces.

Step 2: Blend the Figs

1. Place figs in a blender or food processor and purée until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

1. Transfer purée to a saucepan. Add jam setting sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Heat the Mixture

1. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer gently for 5–10 minutes to thicken.

Step 5: Test Consistency

1. Drop a spoonful on a plate, cool for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it holds shape, it’s done; if too runny, cook a few minutes longer.

Step 6: Cool and Store

1. Remove from heat, cool slightly, then transfer to sterilized jars. Let cool completely before sealing.

Nutrition

Calories: 50kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 0.2gFat: 0.1gFiber: 1gSugar: 10g

Notes

• Choose plump, blemish-free figs that feel slightly soft.
• Cook on medium-low to prevent burning.
• Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of chili for flavor twists.
• Adjust sugar for sweetness preference.
  
• Always sterilize jars to prolong shelf life.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

FAQ

Conclusion

Making fig paste is a simple and rewarding way to add sweet richness to your kitchen creations. Whether on cheese platters, salads, or desserts, this homemade treat elevates any meal. Gather your figs, relax, and enjoy the process — the result is pure joy!

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