Too many figs? Time to get giving!
If you're lucky enough to have a productive fig tree, you'll often find a welcome first harvest quickly turns into an overwhelming deluge. Rather than leaving the extras for the wasps, follow our Head Gardener Ned's easy preserving recipe and keep yourself in sweet, fruity heaven all winter long. And if you're feeling generous, a jar or two will make a delightful gift for someone special.
Pick a big bowl of fresh young ripe figs. Place in a large saucepan and generously scatter with sugar. Cover and leave to deliquesce for 24 hours. Add a big splash of rum or your preferred tipple, then bring the figs and their liquid to a simmer, trying to keep them submerged in the syrup without squashing. Simmer until soft but still holding their shape. Spoon into hot, sterilised jars, top up with the preserving liquid and seal immediately.
