Preserved Figs in Rum and Cardamom Syrup
Photography by Aaron McLean.
These figs get better the longer you keep them. I have had an opened jar in my fridge for several months. Make sure you use a clean spoon when taking them from the jar.
INGREDIENTS
12-16 firm, unblemished fresh figs
2 cups raw sugar
3 cups water
¼ cup dark rum
1 lemon, thinly sliced
juice of 1 lemon
2 whole green cardamom pods, lightly crushed to loosen the seeds
1 cinnamon stick
1 vanilla bean, halved and seeds scraped out
METHOD
Put the sugar and water in a large saucepan and bring to the boil over a medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Boil for 5 minutes.
Add the remaining ingredients, including the figs, and simmer very gently for 1 hour, (a simmer mat is ideal for gentle cooking), occasionally stirring them but taking care not to break the skins or they will fall apart. The syrup should look golden and reduced. If the figs are cooked but the syrup is still thin, use a slotted spoon to very carefully lift the figs out of the saucepan and place in wide-topped sterilized jars. Put the syrup back over the heat and boil until reduced.
Divide the lemon and spices between the jars and pour over the syrup. Seal tightly. This will fill a 7 cup capacity jar depending on the size of the figs
Related Content
latest issue:
Issue #123
Depending on where you live, spring can bring anything from warmer temperatures and rainy days, to hail, sleet and snow! Dish has you covered for all weather in our latest issue with everything from new season’s fresh asparagus to comforting fried chicken, three ways. With pizzas, dinners for two, recipes for entertaining, indulgent desserts, easy ‘make it tonight’ dishes, an extract from Olivia Galletly’s latest cookbook, fritters, and even a Mexican feast, this issue is jam-packed. With 100 recipes, this bumper issue is one not to be missed!