If you’re a fan of figs and the luscious flavor of Turkish delight, this sugar-free fig jam recipe is a must-try. Figs are naturally sweet and rich in flavors, making them an excellent base for a jam without the need for added sugar. Here’s a simple way to prepare a delightful fig jam that captures the essence of a Turkish delight, perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese.
Ingredients:
Fresh Figs: About 1 pound (approximately 450 grams), ripe and soft.
Lemon Juice: From one large lemon, to balance the sweetness and add a bit of zing.
Orange Zest: From one orange, to add a delightful aroma and a hint of citrus.
Chia Seeds: 2 tablespoons, to naturally thicken the jam without using pectin.
Water: Just enough to blend, about 1/4 cup (60 ml).
Optional: A pinch of cardamom or rose water for that authentic Turkish delight flavor.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Figs Wash the figs thoroughly under running water. Remove the stems and cut the figs into small pieces. If the skins are very thick, you can peel them, but generally, the skins are fine to include as they contain valuable nutrients and fiber.
Step 2: Cook the Figs Place the chopped figs in a medium-sized saucepan. Add the lemon juice, orange zest, and enough water to just cover the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook gently for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The figs should become soft and break down into a saucy consistency.
Step 3: Add Chia Seeds Once the figs have softened, add the chia seeds and stir well. Chia seeds are a fantastic way to thicken jams naturally and add a boost of omega-3 fatty acids. Continue to cook the mixture for another 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure the jam thickens evenly.
Step 4: Final Touches If you want to enhance the flavor reminiscent of Turkish delight, stir in a pinch of cardamom or a few drops of rose water. These ingredients are optional but can elevate the taste of your fig jam.
Step 5: Cool and Store Remove the pan from heat and let the jam cool completely. As it cools, the chia seeds will continue to thicken the jam. Once cooled, transfer the jam to a clean, air-tight jar and refrigerate. The jam will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy your homemade fig jam on whole grain toast, swirled into yogurt, or as a sweet complement to cheeses like brie or goat cheese. This jam is not only delicious but also a healthier option, full of natural flavors and sweetness from the figs.
This sugar-free fig jam recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of figs with a touch of Turkish delight, all without the need for added sugar.
