Figs are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or preserved. Dried figs are a particularly good source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. They are also a good source of energy, making them a great snack for athletes or people on the go. However, dried figs can be tough and chewy if they are not eaten properly. Here are a few tips on how to eat dried figs so that you can enjoy their full flavor and nutritional benefits.
First, it is important to choose dried figs that are soft and pliable. If the figs are too hard, they will be difficult to chew and may not be as flavorful. You can soften dried figs by soaking them in warm water for 10-15 minutes. Once the figs are soft, you can remove them from the water and pat them dry. Secondly, eating dried figs can be done in a variety of ways. You can eat them whole, as a snack, or use them as an ingredient in recipes. Dried figs can be added to salads, oatmeal, yogurt, or baked goods. They can also be used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves. Thirdly, it is important to store dried figs properly so that they stay fresh and flavorful. Dried figs should be stored in a cool, dry place. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Selecting the Right Dried Figs
When selecting the perfect dried figs, consider these key factors:
Look for Whole Fruits:
Choose dried figs that have retained their whole or partial shape, rather than broken or fragmented pieces. This indicates careful harvesting and handling, ensuring optimal quality.
Examine the Color:
Ideal dried figs should exhibit a natural golden brown hue. Avoid figs with excessive darkening or blemishes, as these may suggest over-ripening or improper storage.
Assess the Texture:
High-quality dried figs have a slightly sticky exterior with a soft, pliable interior. Avoid figs that are excessively hard or rubbery, as they may be overdried or subjected to harsh processing techniques.
Consider the Size and Variety:
Dried figs come in various sizes and varieties. Choose the size that best suits your preferences and the intended use. Some popular varieties include Mission figs, Kadota figs, and Calimyrna figs, each offering unique flavors and textures.
| Variety | Description |
|---|---|
| Mission Figs | Large, dark brown figs with a chewy texture and slightly nutty flavor |
| Kadota Figs | Golden-brown figs with a sweet, fruity taste and tender flesh |
| Calimyrna Figs | Large, light-green figs with a mild, subtly sweet flavor and a soft, delicate texture |
Check for Pests and Spoilage:
Carefully inspect dried figs for any visible signs of pests, insects, or mold. Avoid figs with any evidence of damage or contamination.
Soaking Dried Figs
Dried figs are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed on their own or added to a variety of recipes.
If you’re looking to soften your dried figs before eating them, soaking them in water is a great option. This process will help to rehydrate the figs, making them more tender and juicy.
How to Soak Dried Figs
To soak dried figs, simply place them in a bowl or container and cover them with cold water. Allow the figs to soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. The longer you soak the figs, the softer they will become.
Once the figs have soaked, drain the water and pat them dry. The figs are now ready to be eaten or used in your favorite recipes.
Tips for Soaking Dried Figs
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Use cold water to soak the figs. Hot water can damage the figs and make them tough.
Soaking the figs overnight will give them the most time to soften. However, if you’re short on time, soaking the figs for 30 minutes will still make them significantly softer.
Add a little bit of sugar or honey to the water to help sweeten the figs.
If you’re using the figs in a recipe, you can soak them in the liquid that you’ll be using in the recipe (such as milk or juice) instead of water.
| Soaking Time | Result |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | moderately soft figs |
| 1 hour | soft and juicy figs |
| Overnight | very soft and plump figs |
Plumping Dried Figs
Soaking Dried Figs in Warm Water
Place the dried figs in a heat-resistant bowl. Pour warm water (not boiling) over the figs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow the figs to soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they have softened and plumped up.
Steaming Dried Figs
Place a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Add the dried figs to the steamer basket and steam for 5-10 minutes, or until they are soft and pliable. Remove the figs from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly before using.
Microwave Method (Quickest and Easiest Option)
Place the dried figs in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a small amount of water (1-2 tablespoons), and cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the figs are soft and pliable. If the figs are still firm, microwave for an additional 10-20 seconds.
| Method | Time | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Soaking | 30 minutes to 1 hour | Easy |
| Steaming | 5-10 minutes | Medium |
| Microwave | 30-60 seconds | Easy |
Sweetening Dried Figs (Optional)
While dried figs are naturally sweet, some people may prefer to add additional sweetness. Here are a few ways to do so:
- Soak the figs in warm water for 15-30 minutes. This will soften the figs and make them more receptive to absorbing sweeteners.
- Dip the figs in honey or agave syrup. This is a quick and easy way to add sweetness to dried figs.
- Drizzle the figs with a bit of fruit juice, such as orange, apple, or pineapple juice. This will add both sweetness and flavor to the figs.
- Sprinkle the figs with a touch of granulated sugar or brown sugar. This will provide a crunchy sweetness to the figs.
Other Ways to Add Sweetness
In addition to the methods listed above, there are a few other ways to add sweetness to dried figs:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Microwaving | Place the figs in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the figs are soft and pliable. |
| Baking | Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Spread the figs on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the figs are soft and chewy. |
| Freezing | Place the figs in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for at least 2 hours. When the figs are frozen, remove them from the freezer and thaw them at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. This will help to concentrate the sweetness of the figs. |
Fig Infusions
Making fig infusions is a great way to enjoy the sweet, fruity flavor of figs all year round. You can use fresh or dried figs, and the infusion can be made with water, vodka, or brandy.
To make a fig infusion with water, simply combine 1 cup of dried figs with 4 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
To make a fig infusion with vodka or brandy, combine 1 cup of dried figs with 1 cup of vodka or brandy in a jar. Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks. Shake the jar occasionally.
Once the infusion is ready, strain it through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into a clean jar. The infusion can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Fig infusions can be enjoyed on their own, or used in cocktails, mocktails, or desserts. Here are a few ideas:
- Add fig infusion to sparkling water or club soda for a refreshing drink.
- Use fig infusion to make a fig martini or fig mojito.
- Add fig infusion to a simple syrup and use it to sweeten cocktails or mocktails.
- Use fig infusion to flavor ice cream, sorbet, or other desserts.
- Add fig infusion to a vinaigrette or marinade to add a sweet and fruity flavor to your favorite dishes.
| Recipe | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Fig and Ginger Infusion | 1 cup dried figs, sliced 1/4 cup fresh ginger, sliced 4 cups water |
Combine the figs, ginger, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 2 hours, or overnight. Strain and enjoy. |
| Fig and Vanilla Infusion | 1 cup dried figs, sliced 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped 4 cups vodka or brandy |
Combine the figs, vanilla bean, and vodka or brandy in a jar. Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks. Shake the jar occasionally. Strain and enjoy. |
Pairing Dried Figs with Cheese
Combining dried figs with cheese creates a delectable balance of sweet and savory flavors. Here are some pairings to explore:
Blue Cheese
The pungent and creamy flavors of blue cheese complement the sweetness of dried figs. Try pairing them with Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Stilton for a rich and decadent snack.
Hard Cheeses
Hard cheeses like Parmesan, aged Cheddar, and Manchego provide a nutty and salty contrast to dried figs. Their sharp flavors balance the sweetness of the fruit.
Soft Cheeses
Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and goat cheese have a creamy texture that pairs well with the chewy texture of dried figs. The mild flavors of these cheeses allow the sweetness of the fruit to shine through.
Spreadable Cheeses
Spreadable cheeses like cream cheese, mascarpone, and ricotta can be mixed with dried figs to create a delicious spread or dip. The creamy texture of these cheeses complements the chewy texture of the fruit, while the sweetness of the figs adds a delightful touch.
Pairing Guide
Here’s a table summarizing some of the recommended pairings:
| Cheese Type | Recommended Dried Fig Varieties |
|---|---|
| Blue Cheese | Mission, Kadota, Calimyrna |
| Hard Cheeses | Mission, Calimyrna, Adriatic |
| Soft Cheeses | Mission, Kadota, Black Mission |
| Spreadable Cheeses | Mission, Kadota, Black Mission |
Fig Salads and Appetizers
Dried figs can bring a touch of sweetness and chewy texture to a variety of salads and appetizers. Here are some creative ways to incorporate them into your dishes:
1. Fig and Arugula Salad
Combine fresh arugula, chopped walnuts, crumbled blue cheese, and halved dried figs in a salad bowl. Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette and top with shaved Parmesan cheese.
2. Prosciutto-Wrapped Figs
Wrap prosciutto slices around halved dried figs and secure with a toothpick. Grill or pan-fry until the prosciutto is crispy and the figs are warm and tender.
3. Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini
Toast baguette slices and spread with goat cheese. Top with chopped dried figs and drizzle with honey for a sweet and tangy appetizer.
4. Fig and Manchego Cheese Plate
Create a cheeseboard with Manchego cheese, dried figs, membrillo (quince paste), and roasted almonds. Serve with crackers or bread.
5. Fig and Sun-Dried Tomato Bruschetta
Combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried figs, garlic, and olive oil. Spread on toasted bread slices for a flavorful bruschetta.
6. Fig and Honey Mustard Dip
Blend dried figs, Dijon mustard, honey, and Greek yogurt until smooth. Serve with chips, crackers, or vegetables for a sweet and tangy dip.
7. Fig and Roasted Onion Tarts
Caramelize onions in a skillet. Unroll pre-made puff pastry sheets and cut into triangles. Spread with caramelized onions, dried figs, and a sprinkling of thyme. Bake until golden brown and serve warm.
| Recipe | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Fig and Arugula Salad |
|
| Prosciutto-Wrapped Figs |
|
| Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini |
|
Dehydrating Dried Figs
Choosing Ripe Figs
Select fully ripe, blemish-free figs with plump skin and soft interiors. Overripe or underripe figs will not dehydrate well.
Preparing the Figs
Wash the figs thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves. Cut the figs in half or quarters for faster drying.
Dehydration Methods
Sunlight Dehydration
Place the figs on a mesh tray or wire rack in direct sunlight. Rotate the figs every few hours to ensure even drying. This method can take several days.
Oven Dehydration
Preheat the oven to the lowest setting (around 120-140°F). Arrange the figs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for several hours, or until the figs are dry and leathery.
Dehydrator
Set the dehydrator to 125-140°F and arrange the figs on the trays. Dehydrate for 6-8 hours, or until the figs are completely dry and firm.
Microwave Dehydration
Line a microwave-safe plate with parchment paper and arrange the figs on the plate. Microwave on low power for 2-minute intervals, rotating the figs after each interval. Continue until the figs are dry.
Storing Dried Figs
Store the dried figs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 year.
Storing Dried Figs
To preserve the freshness and flavor of dried figs, proper storage techniques are essential.
Sunlight and Heat
Avoid exposing dried figs to direct sunlight or excessive heat. These conditions can cause them to become dry and brittle.
Airtight Containers
Store dried figs in airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and oxidation. Glass jars or sealed plastic bags are ideal options.
Refrigeration
Refrigeration can extend the shelf life of dried figs. Store them in airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze dried figs in airtight containers. They will keep for up to 12 months.
Moisture Control
If dried figs become too dry, place them in a slightly damp cloth or paper bag. This will restore some moisture without making them soggy.
Rehydrating
To rehydrate dried figs, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes to an hour. They will return to their original plump and juicy texture.
Other Storage Tips
To prevent dried figs from clumping, sprinkle them with flour or cornstarch before storing.
Use dried figs within 6-12 months of storage for optimum flavor and quality.
Enjoying Dried Figs in Various Ways
1. Snack Directly
Dried figs are a convenient and healthy snack on their own. Their natural sweetness and chewy texture make them a satisfying treat.
2. Add to Trail Mix
Mix dried figs into your trail mix for a boost of energy and sweetness. They pair well with nuts, seeds, and other dried fruits.
3. Include in Oatmeal
Enhance your oatmeal with dried figs for a flavorful and nutritious breakfast. Their natural sweetness complements the nutty flavor of oatmeal.
4. Use in Salads
Add dried figs to salads for a touch of sweetness and texture. They complement leafy greens, goat cheese, and walnuts.
5. Blend into Smoothies
Blend dried figs into smoothies for a creamy and nutrient-rich beverage. They add sweetness and a boost of fiber.
6. Use in Baking
Use dried figs as a natural sweetener in baking. They add a moist and chewy texture to muffins, cakes, and cookies.
7. Make Fig Jam
Simmer dried figs with sugar, lemon juice, and spices to create a delicious and versatile fig jam that can be used on toast, sandwiches, or as a dip.
8. Use as a Topping
Sprinkle dried figs over yogurt, ice cream, or granola for a sweet and crunchy topping.
9. Use in Energy Bars
Add dried figs to homemade energy bars for a nutritious and flavorful boost. They provide natural sweetness and energy.
10. Create a Fig Relish
Combine chopped dried figs, onions, celery, and vinegar to make a tangy and sweet fig relish that pairs well with grilled meats or as a condiment.
| Dried Fig Nutritional Value | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 249 |
| Fiber | 9.8g |
| Potassium | 747mg |
| Manganese | 12% DV |
| Copper | 18% DV |
How To Eat Figs Dried
Dried figs are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They are a good source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, and they have a naturally sweet flavor that makes them a popular choice for both kids and adults.
There are many different ways to eat dried figs. You can eat them plain, or you can add them to yogurt, oatmeal, or trail mix. You can also use them to make desserts, such as fig bars or fig newton cookies.
No matter how you choose to eat them, dried figs are a healthy and delicious snack that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
People Also Ask
How do you soften dried figs?
There are a few different ways to soften dried figs. One way is to soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes. Another way is to microwave them for about 10 seconds. You can also soften them by steaming them for about 5 minutes.
What are the health benefits of dried figs?
Dried figs are a good source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. They have been shown to help lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion.
How long do dried figs last?
Dried figs can last for up to a year if they are stored in a cool, dry place. However, it is best to eat them within 6 months of purchase for the best flavor and quality.
