Fresh Fig Preserves

A simple and basic preserve to amplify one of our region's most delicious summer jewels, fresh figs! This recipe comes from Juniper Market in St. Augustine, where customers in-the-know go during fig season to have it grilled on rustic bread with brie and rosemary butter. Photo by Amy Robb.

Makes 2 cups

Ingredients

2 pounds figs, stemmed and cut in half

1/3-1/2 cup sugar (depending on ripeness of fruit)

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons brandy or port

Instructions

Muddle all ingredients together in saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for at least 45 minutes and up to two hours until desired consistency is reached.