Green Fig Konfyt
Candied Figs
A traditional South African sweet preserve where whole green figs are slowly cooked and candied in a fragrant ginger syrup. Perfect served with cheese, yogurt, or as a sweet treat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5kg Green figs(Must be firm and unripe. Look for figs that are still hard and have not started to soften or change color significantly.)
- 1.5kg Granulated sugar(Equal weight to the figs is traditional for preservation.)
- 1.5 liters Water(To make the syrup.)
- 50g Fresh ginger(Peeled and thinly sliced or cut into large pieces.)
- 2 tablespoons Salt(For soaking the figs.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the figs: Wash the green figs thoroughly. Using a small sharp knife, carefully score each fig from the top about 4-6 times, making sure not to cut all the way through to the center. This allows the syrup to penetrate. Place the scored figs in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Dissolve the salt in the water. Let the figs soak overnight (approximately 12-16 hours) at room temperature. This step helps to draw out any bitterness and firm up the figs.
⏱️ 12-16 hours (overnight) - 2
Drain and rinse the figs: After soaking, drain the figs and rinse them very well under cold running water to remove all traces of salt. Place the rinsed figs in a large pot and cover them with fresh cold water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and blanch the figs for 5-10 minutes. This initial boil helps to soften them slightly and prepare them for candying.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 3
Prepare the syrup and cook the figs: Drain the blanched figs and discard the blanching water. In the same large pot (or a clean one), combine the 1.5kg sugar, 1.5 liters of water, and the prepared ginger slices. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Bring the syrup to a boil. Carefully add the blanched figs to the boiling syrup. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. The figs should be mostly submerged in the syrup. Cook uncovered, very gently simmering, for 4 to 5 hours. Stir occasionally, being careful not to break the figs. The figs are ready when they become translucent and slightly tender, and the syrup has thickened considerably. The syrup should coat the back of a spoon.
⏱️ 4-5 hours - 4
Cool and store: Once the figs are translucent and the syrup is thick, remove the pot from the heat. Allow the konfyt to cool completely in the syrup. Once cooled, carefully ladle the figs and syrup into sterilized jars or airtight containers. Ensure the figs are fully submerged in the syrup. Store the Green Fig Konfyt in a cool, dark place. It will keep for several months if properly sealed.
⏱️ Cooling time varies
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use only firm, completely unripe green figs. Overripe or browning figs will disintegrate during cooking.
- ✓The ginger is crucial for its aromatic quality and subtle spice, complementing the sweetness of the figs.
- ✓This is a traditional Cape Dutch preserve, often served during festive seasons or with a cheese board.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a cinnamon stick or a split vanilla bean to the syrup while it simmers.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a cinnamon stick to the syrup during cooking for a warm spice note.
- Infuse the syrup with a split vanilla bean for a classic flavor pairing.