Fig Preserves

Fig Preserves is perfect to serve as a starter on toast points or crackers with a spoon of soft goat cheese. This also works in filling puff pastry or filo dough to use as a snack or tidbit for a wine tasting menu.

• 3 pounds fresh figs, rinsed, stems removed
• 1 cup sugar
• Juice of 1 fresh lemon
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons port wine (opt)
• 2- 8-ounce canning jars

1. To prepare the fig preserves, cut the figs in large dice and transfer to a 3-quart pot. Stir in the sugar, the lemon, cinnamon stick and port wine, if using.  Bring to a boil over medium- high heat, cooking for about 25 minutes then reduce to medium. Simmer, reducing excess liquid until you can draw a line across the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon and has the consistency of jam.  It will thicken as it cools.
2. Pack in sterile jars, cover, and refrigerate.  For longer storage, use the standard canning process.