As this is the first post about figs, we, therefore, like to share a general view at figs. More like basic information about this amazing sweet fruit, but also some fascinating facts about figs.
In future posts, we plan to discuss the health benefits of figs, and why it is a good idea to add figs to your diet, or how figs can help you lose weight or even protect you from diseases, such as cancer. But that later…
What Are Figs?
So the first question should be, what are figs actually? First of all, figs are not fruit but actually inverted flowers and fig trees don’t flower as apple and peach trees do. Their flowers bloom inside the pear-shaped pod, which later matures into the fruit we eat…
Because fig flowers bloom internally, they need a special process for pollination. But let’s call them fruit, to make it easy..!
Delicious sweet figs are among the oldest cultivated fruits, prized for their honeyed flavor and soft, jammy texture and you can eat them fresh, cooked, or dried; the latter is maybe the most familiar one to most of us!
Figs are members of the mulberry family and offer a number of health benefits to those who consume them, such as:
- Plenty of fiber, which aids in keeping digestive health in good condition.
- Filled with vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, vitamin K, vitamin A, iron, calcium, magnesium, and folate.
- Relatively low in calories and low in fat.
Figs Are Harvested Twice Per Year
Figs can be harvested two times because there are two fig seasons per year – the first in early summer and the second late summer to early fall. Although the figs in the second harvest are having thicker skin, they also have a more intense sweetness.
How To Store Figs
Once picked, figs have a short shelf life and should be eaten within a few days. Store these perishable fruits in a single layer on a plate or shallow bowl in the refrigerator or a very cool place and eat within a few days. Although figs do not continue to ripen off the tree, firm ones may soften if left at room temperature for a day or two.
How To Prepare
Handle figs with care; rinse them with a little cool water and gently wipe dry. Figs may be eaten skin and all and are delicious raw, baked, broiled, caramelized, or roasted. They may also be preserved by drying, steeping in liquor, jamming, or pickling.