Figs are incredibly nutritious and delicious, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying them right off of the tree. However, not everyone knows how to pick and eat them properly. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting and enjoying a fresh fig off the tree, so that you can fully appreciate the unique flavor and texture of this amazing fruit.
1. Pick the Perfect Fig: Before you start trying to eat figs off a tree, you must learn how to select the perfect fig. The best figs are those that are just starting to soften and show signs of wrinkling on their skin. Generally speaking, figs that are completely soft and remain on the tree for long periods are best suited to be shared with local wildlife instead of eating.
2. Get Familiar with the Texture: Figs have a unique texture that takes some getting used to. Because they contain both skin and numerous tiny seeds, the fruit has something of an unexpected “crunch” albeit soft. Many people initially have difficulty with the seeds but as you acquire to enjoy figs more and more, you will eventually get used to them.
3. Remove the Stem and Skin: Once you’ve picked a fig, it’s time to prepare it for eating. The first thing you need to do is remove the little stem at the base of the fruit. This should be a gentle task that only needs a light twisting motion. Then, you can either enjoy the fruit whole or remove the skin using a small knife or peeler, as some people may find the skin to be slightly bitter.
4. Savor the Flavor: Once you have prepared your fig to your liking, the next step is to finally taste it. Simply place the fruit in your mouth and let it rest against your palate for a moment, allowing the flavor to develop. Savor the slightly sweet and subtle flavor of the fig, and remember that you’re indulging in something truly special that only the garden has to offer.
5. Try Various Preparation Methods: Once you start to get used to eating figs right off the tree, you might be interested in finding new and exciting ways to enjoy this fruit. You can try adding them to savory dishes like roasted chicken or simply add them to your bowl of yogurt for breakfast. There are many fig-inspired recipes that you can try to take advantage of every part of the wonderful fig.
10 Ways To Eat A Fig
Figs are versatile and delicious fruits that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are ten ways to eat and incorporate figs into your meals:
- Fresh and Raw:
- Simply eat fresh figs as they are. Wash them and enjoy the whole fruit, including the skin and seeds.
- Fig Salad:
- Slice fresh figs and add them to salads. They pair well with arugula, goat cheese, nuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Fig and Cheese Platter:
- Serve fresh or dried figs with a variety of cheeses, such as blue cheese, brie, or aged cheddar, on a charcuterie board.
- Stuffed Figs:
- Stuff fresh figs with cheese (like goat cheese or cream cheese) and nuts. Drizzle with honey for an elegant appetizer.
- Baked Figs:
- Halve figs, drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze, and bake until soft. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or mascarpone.
- Fig Jam:
- Make homemade fig jam by cooking figs with sugar and lemon juice. Spread it on toast, crackers, or use as a filling for pastries.
- Fig Tart:
- Use figs as a topping for a tart. Layer them on a pastry crust with almond cream or custard for a delicious dessert.
- Roasted Figs:
- Roast figs with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. They make a great side dish or topping for roasted meats and vegetables.
- Fig Smoothie:
- Blend figs into a smoothie with yogurt, honey, and other fruits like bananas or berries for a nutritious and sweet drink.
- Grilled Figs:
- Grill figs on a barbecue or grill pan until caramelized. Serve them as a side dish or atop a salad for a smoky-sweet flavor.
These methods showcase the versatility of figs and allow you to enjoy their unique flavor in various dishes.
Why figs should be soaked before eating?
Soaking figs before eating is often recommended for several reasons, particularly when dealing with dried figs. Here are the main benefits of soaking figs:
- Rehydration: Soaking dried figs helps rehydrate them, making them softer and easier to chew and digest. This can be especially important for people with dental issues or those who find dried figs too tough.
- Improved Digestion: Soaking figs can help activate enzymes that aid in digestion. It can also reduce the risk of digestive discomfort that some people might experience when eating dried figs due to their high fiber content.
- Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: The soaking process can help break down certain compounds in figs, potentially making nutrients more bioavailable and easier for your body to absorb.
- Reduced Sugar Content: Soaking can help reduce the concentrated sugar content in dried figs, making them a healthier option for those who are watching their sugar intake.
- Removal of Impurities: Soaking dried figs can help remove any dust, pesticides, or preservatives that might be present on the surface of the fruit.
How to Soak Figs
- Rinse the Figs: Rinse the figs under running water to remove any surface dirt or impurities.
- Soak in Water: Place the figs in a bowl and cover them with fresh water. Leave them to soak for a few hours or overnight.
- Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain the water and rinse the figs again. They are now ready to eat.
Soaking figs can make them more enjoyable and beneficial to eat, especially if they are dried.
Should you drink water after eating figs?
Yes, it is recommended that you drink water after eating figs. Eating foods such as figs can cause your body to produce more saliva and this extra moisture can make it difficult for your throat and mouth to stay hydrated. Drinking a glass of water after eating will help keep them lubricated and prevent dehydration.
Are figs safe to eat every day?
Yes, figs are generally considered safe to consume every day. Figs contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that can benefit your health, so as long as you’re not eating too many, they can be part of a healthy diet. It is important to remember though that like all foods, moderation is key.
Can I eat 10 figs a day?
No, it is not recommended to eat more than five figs a day. Eating too many can lead to digestive issues such as an upset stomach or constipation. Additionally, eating too much of any food type can cause you to gain weight and increase your risk of health problems. generally better to enjoy figs as part of a balanced diet, limiting to 3-5 figs daily to reap their benefits without overdoing it. Always consider individual health conditions and dietary needs when incorporating figs into your diet.
What are the health benefits of eating figs?
Figs are a great source of dietary fiber and contain important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorous, and folate. Eating figs can help to promote healthy digestion due to their high fiber content and can also help to reduce cholesterol levels. Figs are also known for their high antioxidant content, which can help protect the body from free radical damage.
Should figs be refrigerated?
Yes, it is best to keep figs in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will help them stay fresh for longer periods of time. Figs should not be kept at room temperature as they can spoil quickly when exposed to heat and humidity. To ensure maximum freshness, it is best to store them in a cool, dry place such as the refrigerator.
Overall, enjoying a fresh fig right off of the tree is an amazing experience. With the right techniques, you can pick the perfect fig, prepare it in a way that suits your taste, and savor the unique flavor and texture of this incredible fruit.
Whether you are a gardener or someone who simply loves nature’s fresh gifts, figs are worth the effort. So go ahead and give it a try – you might find a new appreciation for the flavorful fig, you never knew existed before.
