Made with rescued Australian figs and locally grown fennel seeds, this bold fruit paste combines sweet, deep fig flavour with aromatic fennel nuance. Crafted in small batches to preserve character and intensity — ideal for cheese boards, glazes, dressings, and refined cooking.

About the Producer

Ugly Duck Fine Foods is a Brisbane‑based artisan brand led by Michelle Mascher. Their mission: to rescue perfectly good fruit and vegetables that may be “ugly” in appearance but full of flavour. Working directly with Australian growers, they transform these into small‑batch condiments, pastes and spreads — free from artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. This fig & fennel fruit paste is a perfect expression of that purpose.

Culinary Uses

• Spread on sourdough or crackers for a cheese board highlight

• Glaze pork loin, chicken breast or roasted vegetables

• Stir through Greek yoghurt or ricotta for dessert

• Add to vinaigrettes, dressings or grain‑salad toppings

• Mix into baked goods (rustic tart, muffin batter) for a flavour twist

Ingredients: Fig (55%), Sugar, Pectin, Fennel Seed (0.2%), Citric Acid

No artificial colours, flavours, gel additives or preservatives.

Why We Love It

• Made from rescued fruit that might otherwise go to waste

• Balanced flavour: the sweetness of fig, the aromatic lift of fennel

• Artisan‑crafted in Brisbane in small batches

• Clean: no preservatives, no artificial additives

• A versatile paste that bridges sweet and savoury

Storage

Store sealed in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks. If the paste thickens slightly, warm the jar in a bowl of hot water for a minute to restore spreadable texture.

FAQS

Is this product vegan and gluten‑free?

Yes — it contains no animal products or gluten ingredients.

What’s the shelf life?

Unopened: around 12–18 months. Once opened: best used within 3–4 weeks, refrigerated.

Is the fruit really “rescued”?

Yes. Ugly Duck works with growers to salvage high‑quality fruit that may not meet cosmetic export standards — still full of flavour, now given a second life.

Can I use it in savoury cooking?

Absolutely. Though naturally sweet, the fennel seed and salt provide a counterbalance which makes it serve well in savoury glazes or dressings as well as sweet dishes.