Couple from Rancho Bernardo builds successful fig jam business from their home

Rancho Bernardo Couple Turns Fig Harvest into Successful Jam Business

When life gave Rancho Bernardo residents Larry and Michele Krupinski an abundance of figs from their trees, they decided to make jam. What started as a way to use up excess fruit turned into a thriving business known as Cucina di Nana.

Their fig jams, made with organic sugar, lemon juice, and zest, are now sold online and at various local businesses in the area. The couple will also be showcasing their products at the upcoming Vines & Vittles family festival in Rancho Bernardo.

The name Cucina di Nana, meaning Grandma’s Kitchen, reflects the couple’s Italian heritage and the involvement of their grandchildren in cooking family meals. Despite facing challenges like losing their home in a fire, the Krupinskis persevered and rebuilt, eventually adding fig trees to their yard.

Michele’s jam-making process involves using fresh figs picked by Larry, freezing them for later use, and creating unique flavors like orange, whiskey, and habanero. Their jams have gained popularity at local wineries and stores like Jimbo’s, where they sell the classic fig jam.

With plans to expand their business and move into a commercial kitchen in the future, the Krupinskis continue to innovate and experiment with new flavors. Their dedication to quality and passion for preserving the natural sweetness of figs have made Cucina di Nana a favorite among customers.