Fresh Fig (Anjeer) Jam.

"Fresh Fig (Anjeer) Jam" ... Delicious homemade Jam using fresh figs that are plenty in season now ... You can spread them on toast, bread, parathas, creme' crackers or just enjoy a large spoonful as it is like how I do sometimes .....

** Jams are a delight to relish with any dish of your choice, but we never know what goes into those readily available store bought jams. There is sure to be loads of preservatives as they are prepared in consideration to long shelf life. Also, one is never sure of actually the fruits used in the preparations etc. So, why not prepare them at home and rest assured of quality when you serve them to your family specially your kids. These jams last for about 5-6 months if stored properly in fridge and I think that much period is enough for us to consume the same and prepare fresh ones again, Isn't it. Preparing this fresh fig jam is simple, I have added on some chunks too and it is that much more yummier to bite on them. 

** Here is my simple method of preparing "Fresh Fig (Anjeer) Jam" ... My Style ... 

** Wash and cut off the stem of a dozen large sized fresh figs (Anjeer). Chop them into 6 pieces each or 4 if small in size and keep it ready aside..

** Take a thick bottomed kadai/pan, add in the chopped figs, 1 cup of sugar (You can add a bit more if you want it sweeter), 3 inch single piece of Cinnamon (do not add pieces as it is to be removed after the jam is ready, 4-5 cloves crushed coarsely and 1 tblsp of fresh lemon zest.

** Keep the kadai on high heat till all the sugar has dissolved, stirring often. Once the sugar has melted and the jam starts to thicken a bit, Add in 1tblsp of honey and Juice of 3 lemons (see that there are no seeds in it) and mix well. Lower the heat to medium and cook further till the jam thickens.

** Keep stirring the jam to prevent it getting burnt. When it coats the back of a spoon evenly the jam is done. Remove from heat, cool a bit and then remove the cinnamon piece from the jam. Pour the jam into a sterilized glass bottle when still slightly hot and cover with a tight lid.

** "Fresh Fig (Anjeer) Jam"  is done and ready to be served. Serve with Toasted Bread / Roti / Poori / Dosa / creme' cracker biscuits or any dish of your choice. I love to relish this with panpolo / neer dosa too. Do try out this simple jam and enjoy with your family and friends.

** Important Note: This Jam cannot be stored outside at room temperature as preservatives are not added to this particular jam. So once it has cooled down keep it in the fridge and use and when required. Use a fresh clean spoon always to remove the jam from the bottle.