Figs are the first fruits mentioned in the Bible. With their mild, sweet taste, they nourished Adam and Eve in paradise. Figs can be used in many ways in the kitchen: They taste good raw or dried and go well with a wide variety of dishes.
What are fig tree fruits?
Fig fruits are drupes that grow on the fig tree and consist of many small, interconnected drupes. They are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber and can be eaten raw, dried or used in various dishes.
The fig is a drupe
The fig has an interesting pollination ecology, as a result of which the aromatic fruits develop after three to five months. Like raspberries, they are collective fruits (Syconium) and consist of numerous small, interconnected stone fruits. The aromatic pulp consists of axial tissue that surrounds the small flowers and protects the fruit.
Fig fruits fresh from the tree – an incomparable pleasure
In the main fig growing areas, the fruits can be harvested three times a year. The flesh is colored pale pink to red depending on the variety. If you want to eat the fig raw, all you need to do is wash the fruit well and cut off the stem. You can eat the bowl too. For varieties with thicker skin, you can alternatively cut the fruit in half and scoop out the pulp with its many small stones. The aromatic sweetness of the fruit goes perfectly with raw ham or goat cheese and underlines the aroma of s alty dishes.
Figs – packed with valuable ingredients
Figs are considered a superfood because the small fruits are full of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron. Thanks to the digestive enzymes they contain, they gently stimulate intestinal activity. A fig contains less than 40 calories and fills you up for a long time thanks to the fiber it contains.
Perishable fruits
If the fig gives slightly when pressed lightly, it is fully ripe. The fruit should exude an aromatic scent. However, if the fig feels slightly mushy and smells unpleasantly sweet, it is fermenting inside and is no longer suitable for consumption.
Ripe figs spoil quickly: even when stored next to each other in the refrigerator, the fruits only last two to three days. Take the figs out of the freezer a few hours before eating so that they can develop their full aroma at room temperature.
Tips & Tricks
Figs are one of the fruits that contain a relatively high amount of oxalic acid. If you have kidney problems, you should check with your doctor how many figs you can safely consume. However, you don't have to miss out on enjoying figs, because cooking them drastically reduces the oxalic acid content.
