2 lbs. ripe figs
2 tablespoons baking soda
2 quarts boiling water
2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
Wash the figs. Put them into a large pan and sprinkle the cooking soda over them. Pour the boiling water over them and let stand for about 2 minutes. Pour the hot water off and immediately pour cold water over the figs to complete the blanching process. Drain.
Place the figs in a large pot. If the preserve is to close to the top, it well go over. Add 1 cup of water. Let it cook for a while until the water starts to go down. Add the sugar. Simmer until a small amount of thick syrup is left, about 45 minutes. Remove from fire and stir in the vanilla. Put in sterile jars and keep in the refrigerator.
