Strawberry Fig Jam I

4 half-pint jars Prep: 45 m Cook: 30 m Total: 1 h 15 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Strawberry Fig Jam I
Figs jams can be made with virtually any Kool Aid flavors - the original six flavors were Strawberry, Raspberry, Orange, Lemon-Lime, Grape, and Cherry. Although not all are a perfect choice, many are suitable to flavor figs including Black Cherry. To reduce the amount of sugar and sweetness, Kool-Aid flavors can be used instead of Jello. This strawberry fig jam uses Jello for a vibrant flavor and simple three-ingredient preserve.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 4 cups fresh figs ground
  • 3 cups sugar
  • 1 large box strawberry jello

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Clean figs; cut stems off and grind in meat grinder or food processor.
  2. Put figs in large, heavy-duty pot. Pour the sugar over the figs, then the jello. Let the mixture soak for 30 to 45 minutes.
  3. Cook over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil. Lower heat and cook on low for 30 minutes after the mixture comes to a boil. The mixture is not real thick.
  4. Dip the canning jars and lids in hot water to sterilize.
  5. Pour figs into the canning jars that have been placed in hot water so the jars will not break. Seal, cool and store.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my jam not setting up thick?

A: This recipe intentionally produces a softer, looser jam compared to traditional preserves. The Jello helps with some thickening, but if you want a thicker consistency, you can cook it a bit longer (up to 45 minutes) or add a packet of pectin.

Q: Can I use frozen figs instead of fresh?

A: Yes, but thaw them completely and drain off excess liquid before grinding. Frozen figs will release more water, so you may need to cook the jam a bit longer to reach the right consistency.

Tips and Techniques

Make sure to let the sugar and Jello mixture soak into the ground figs for the full 30-45 minutes - this helps the flavors meld and prevents the sugar from scorching when you start cooking. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning, and stir frequently once the mixture begins to boil.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • strawberry jello: raspberry, cherry, or orange jello
  • jello: unsweetened Kool-Aid (2 packets) plus 1 packet pectin
  • fresh figs: frozen figs, thawed and drained

Equipment Needed

  • meat grinder or food processor
  • large heavy-bottomed pot
  • canning jars and lids
  • large pot for sterilizing jars

Historical Context

Using Jello or Kool-Aid to flavor fig preserves became popular in Louisiana home kitchens as a time-saving alternative to traditional jam-making. It allowed cooks to create flavored fig jams without the precise pectin ratios and long cooking times of old-fashioned recipes.