Fabulous Figs

Figs are little fruit with a big history. This fruit has an ancient history dating back to Biblical times and was often seen as a sign of prosperity and peace.

Before reaching its optimal ripeness, a fig will have a gummy texture and can cause serious irritation for the skin. Workers, who harvest figs and work in the production of fig based products, have to wear protective wear to prevent this irritation.

Besides eating them as they are, figs can be used in the production of tobacco, certain types of liqueur or can sometimes be grounded and roasted as a substitute to coffee.

They aren’t always readily available fresh and have a short shelf life – 1 to 2 days when removed from storage. They can however be frozen or dried. By doing so, they can last much longer.

Fig trees won’t blossom as their flowers are found on the inside of the fruit. This is the part of the fruit that is responsible for its characteristic taste and texture.

The riper the fig, the higher it’s antioxidant content – more on this tomorrow.

Can you remember when was the last time that you had a fig?