Fig Pickles
Sweet and spicy fig pickles combine ripe figs with vinegar and warming spices, creating a delightful condiment perfect for cheese boards, charcuterie, or gift-giving during the holidays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel figs or pour boiling water over unpeeled figs and let stand until cool; drain.
- Add 3 cups sugar to water and cook until sugar dissolves.
- Add figs and cook slowly for 30 minutes.
- Add 2 cups sugar and vinegar to the figs.
- Tie spices in a cheesecloth bag.
- Add the spice bag to the figs and cook gently until the figs are clear.
- Cover and let stand for 12 to 24 hours in a cool place.
- Remove the spice bag.
- Heat the mixture to simmering.
- Pack hot into hot jars, leaving 1/4-inch space at the top.
- Adjust caps on the jars.
- Process pints and quarts in boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your fig pickles, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of lemon juice. If figs are not available, you can substitute with firm pears for a different twist. Ensure figs are ripe but not overly soft for the best texture. When preparing the spice bag, you can also add star anise for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Fig pickles make a delightful addition to cheese boards, pairing excellently with sharp cheeses or cured meats. They can also be served alongside Aunt Mary's Slaw for a refreshing contrast. For a sweet-savory touch, serve them as a topping on grilled meats or as an accompaniment to charcuterie plates.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fig pickles in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume within a month. To enjoy, there's no need to reheat; simply serve chilled or at room temperature to enhance the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fig Pickles contains roughly 1240 calories, with 20g protein, 280g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (223% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (193% of the Daily Value), and iron (116% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 508mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen figs for this recipe?
While fresh figs are ideal for fig pickles, you can use frozen figs if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before starting the recipe to ensure the right consistency and flavor.
How long do these fig pickles last once opened?
Once opened, fig pickles can last for about a month when stored in the refrigerator. Always use a clean utensil to scoop out the pickles to avoid contamination and extend their shelf life.
What can I do with leftover syrup from the pickles?
The syrup left after making fig pickles can be used creatively! Drizzle it over pancakes, mix it into cocktails, or use it as a glaze for roasted meats. Its sweet and spiced flavor adds a nice touch to various dishes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).