Homemade Onion and Fig jam is a versatile and delicious condiment that can be used in many creative ways. It is easy to make at home, and it’s perfect for fall and winter.
It is a great way to use up ripe figs that may otherwise go to waste. It is a perfect condiment for fall and winter, as the sweet and savoury flavours are perfect for the cooler weather.
Early Origins of Onion and Fig Jam
The fig is one of the oldest fruits known to man, with a history that dates back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Figs were considered a symbol of fertility and were often used in religious rituals. In ancient Greece and Rome, figs were a common ingredient in cooking, used to make sweet and savory dishes alike.
Onions, on the other hand, have been cultivated for thousands of years and were a staple food in ancient civilizations. Onions were used for their medicinal properties as well as their culinary uses, and they were often eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes.
The combination of figs and onions likely originated in the Middle East, where both ingredients were plentiful. The use of figs and onions in jam-making likely came about as a way to preserve the fruits for long periods of time.
By the Middle Ages, the use of figs and onions in jam-making had spread throughout Europe. In medieval Europe, jams and preserves were often made from fruits that were in season and needed to be preserved for the winter months. Onion and fig jam was a popular preserve in many European countries, including Italy, France, and England.
During the Renaissance, sugar became more widely available and was added to jams and preserves to create a sweeter taste. This likely influenced the development of onion and fig jam, which had previously been a savoury preserve.
In modern times, onion and fig jam has become a popular condiment in many parts of the world. It is often used as a glaze for meats, a topping for cheese boards, and a spread for toast or crackers. Its unique combination of sweet and savoury flavours makes it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savoury dishes.
Today, there are many variations of onion and fig jam, with different recipes and ingredients used to create the perfect balance of flavours. Some recipes use honey instead of sugar to create a sweeter taste, while others add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavour.
Benefits of Onion and Fig Jam
Onion and fig jam are not only delicious, but it is also nutritious. Onions are a great source of antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They are also a good source of fibre and vitamin C. Figs, on the other hand, are packed with vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron. They are also a great source of dietary fibre.
The combination of these two ingredients in the jam provides a sweet and savoury taste that is perfect for a variety of dishes. The sweetness of the figs complements the rich flavour of the caramelized onions, making it a perfect condiment to pair with meats, cheeses, and crackers.
This jam can also be a healthier alternative to store-bought jams that often contain high amounts of sugar and preservatives. Making your own onion and fig jam allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
In addition, onion and fig jam can also be a thoughtful gift to give to friends and family. Simply package it in a cute jar and tie a ribbon around it for a homemade and heartfelt gift.
Creative Ways to Use Homemade Onion and Fig Jam
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- Charcuterie Board: Onion and fig jam pairs perfectly with a variety of meats and cheeses, making it a great addition to a charcuterie board. Spread it on crackers or baguette slices and top with your favourite cheese and meat.
- Grilled Cheese: Upgrade your grilled cheese sandwich by spreading onion and fig jam on the bread before adding the cheese. The sweet and savoury flavours of the jam complement the cheese perfectly and take this classic sandwich to the next level.
- Salad Dressing: Mix onion and fig jam with some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard to create a flavorful and unique salad dressing.
- Glaze for Meat: Use onion and fig jam as a glaze for chicken, pork, or beef. Simply brush it on the meat before baking or grilling, and let the jam caramelize and create a delicious crust.
- Topping for Canapes: Spread onion and fig jam on toasted baguette slices and top with goat cheese or blue cheese for an easy and elegant appetizer.
- Burger: Spread the onion and fig jam on one side of the bun, while a type of sauce on the other side of the bun (such as chipotle mayonnaise, etc). This is great for any type of burgers, especially beef, pork or lamb. The most compatible cheese for a burger with onion and fig jam would be Brie Cheese, Gorgonzola Cheese, Mozzarella and Ricotta.
In conclusion, onion and fig jam is a delicious and versatile condiment that can add a unique and flavorful touch to a variety of dishes. It is easy to make at home and can be used in many creative ways. Give it a try and see how it can elevate your favourite dishes!
Onion and Fig Jam
Ingredients
- 2 pcs large onions, thinly sliced
- 10-12 pcs ripe figs, diced
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 sprigs thyme
- 2 sprigs rosemary
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally, until they soften.
- Add diced figs, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to the pan, stirring to combine. Add the sprigs of rosemary and thyme and stir again.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes a jam-like consistency.
- Remove the rosemary and thyme sprigs from the pan and discard them. Taste the jam and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Let the jam cool and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
Chef Tips / Notes:
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- You can choose to strain the jam to get rid of the seeds and have a smoother finish. I decided that I wanted to enjoy the beautiful look and texture of the fig seeds. I love these seed specks!
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- You can also choose to alternatively caramelize the onion first to make it a slightly different taste - caramelized onion and fig jam. In this instance, I wanted to highlight the taste of the figs, however, I am a caramelized onion lover and it would also have been an amazing jam with caramelized onions.
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- A big batch can be made when figs are in season or when you come across a farmer's market with great figs at great prices. Simply freeze them in small batches and defrost overnight in the fridge when needed throughout the year.
