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Fig

The fig (Ficus carica) is a fruit native to Western Asia and the Middle East, now widely cultivated across the Mediterranean and other regions. Known for its unique taste and nutritional benefits, this pear-shaped fruit features a soft, chewy texture and a sweet, aromatic flavor. Figs generally come in two colors, green or purple, and are filled with tiny, edible seeds, giving them a slightly crunchy texture when eaten. Figs can be enjoyed both fresh and dried, with numerous culinary uses ranging from baking to preserving. They can be added to salads, cereals, or yogurt, or even used as a sweetening agent in sauces and marinades. Combining well with nuts, cheeses, and meats, figs are a versatile ingredient in various dishes, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures to any recipe.
#54
IN FRESH FRUIT
249
CAL / 100G
$0.30
AVG / OZ
fig
94%
CARBS
1%
FAT
5%
PROTEIN
Fig FAQ
When it comes to cooking with figs, one of the most common questions is how to properly incorporate them into a variety of dishes, taking into account their flavor profile and texture. A typical mistake is not knowing the difference in taste and texture between fresh and dried figs. Fresh figs are sweet and jammy, while dried ones have a concentrated flavor and a chewy texture. To get the most out of figs, they should be used in applications that allow their unique flavor and texture to shine - think salads, dips, pastries, or even on a cheese board. Another tip is to pair figs with ingredients that they compliment, like prosciutto, blue cheese, or even dark chocolate. A little-known trick is to gently squeeze fresh figs to gauge their ripeness. If the fig gives slightly, it's ripe and ready to eat. If it's firm, it needs a little more time.
How can you tell if a fig is ripe?
What pairs well with figs?
Can you eat the skin of a fig?
Are the seeds in a fig edible?
Is there a difference in taste between green and purple figs?
What's the difference between fresh and dried figs?
Can figs be used in savory dishes?
How do you cook figs?
How can figs be used in baking?
What is the nutritional value of figs?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does fig expire?
Fresh figs are perishable and can last up to 7 to 10 days in the fridge. It's common to have slightly wrinkled figs, but anything beyond a week in the fridge and they may start to mold. Dried figs, on the other hand, are shelf-stable and can last up to a year if unopened and stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, they should be stored in an airtight container and consumed within a month. Fig jam or preserves following homemade recipes can last up to a year if properly canned and stored in the pantry but should be used within 2 to 3 weeks once opened and refrigerated. If you have an excess of fresh figs, you can freeze them and they will stay good for about 6 months. For best quality, they should be thawed slowly in the fridge before consumption.
How do you tell if fig is bad?
Telling if a fig has gone bad is relatively simple. Fresh figs should be soft and yielding when gently pressed but if it's hard or dry, then it's most likely past its prime. If the fig is slimy, leaking liquid or has any spots of mold, it's definitely bad and should be disposed of. As for dried figs, any noticeable mold, a sour smell, or a hard texture are indicators that they should no longer be consumed. For homemade fig preserves, look for an off-smell, mold, or changes in color and consistency.
Tips for storing fig to extend shelf life
• Always store fresh figs in the refrigerator. • Before refrigerating, place fresh figs in a plastic bag to prevent them from drying out. Avoid washing them until you're ready to use them as moisture encourages mold. • For dried figs, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. After opening, your dried figs will retain their freshness longer if you keep them in the refrigerator. • If you have a large amount of fresh figs and can't consume them all at once, consider freezing them. You can extend their usefulness by freezing halved or quartered figs on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags and squeezing out as much air as possible. • Homemade fig preserves should be canned and stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, they need to be refrigerated and consumed within 2 to 3 weeks. Making preserves or jam is another excellent way of extending the life of your figs.
EXPIRES WITHIN
8 - 20
DAYS
Substitutes
Health Info
Macros
31g
CARBS
0g
FAT
1g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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