Traditional Whole Green Fig Preserve

Ingredients

• 1 kg firm unripe green figs
• 2 litres water for soaking
• 30 g salt
• 1 kg white sugar
• 1 litre water for syrup
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 piece fresh ginger, sliced, optional

Method

1. Wash the figs and trim the stems, leaving the fruit intact.
2. Cut a small cross into the base of each fig.
3. Cover with salted water and soak overnight.
4. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
5. Cover with fresh water and simmer until the figs are just tender when pierced.
6. Drain carefully.
7. Bring the sugar and syrup water to the boil until the sugar has dissolved.
8. Add the figs and simmer very gently until translucent and the syrup has thickened.
9. Add the lemon juice and optional ginger near the end of cooking.
10. Spoon the hot preserve into clean sterilised jars and seal.