Not so common figs “eating methods”

Dried figs are associated with Christmas, probably because figs are mainly available during the holidays and the price is much friendlier. This may entice people to buy more figs than they need and even though figs are sold mainly as dried fruit, it is best to consume them as soon as possible, because then may turn into a weird pulp. If you like to eat figs directly from the package, try one of the following suggestions.

History of figs

Figs have been a delicacy for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Rome. Fresh figs are only available in summer, but you can get dried figs all year round. Figs are an excellent source of fibre, potassium, calcium and other minerals and they go very well with both sweet and salty dishes. Once you open a package of figs, store it in an airtight container.

Cooked figs

To make figs softer you can boil dried figs for up to 10 minutes. You may cut them into small pieces and add them to oatmeal or yogurt and have a tasty and nutritious breakfast. This is clearly much better than adding marmalade to yogurt or cereals.

Figs and cheese?

You may be surprised but figs go particularly well with cheese. Add figs to any cheese plates or even to cheese pastries and you will have a classy and taste plate. Cut figs are often used to decorate plates. If you want to be creative you can also add arugula or other leafy vegetables to enhance the appearance. Blue cheese, goat cheese, feta cheese or brie are all good choice for your cheese plate. Sprinkle your cheese plate with honey, balsamic vinegar or extra virgin olive oil to add a little fancy touch. Add few slices of fresh bread and you are ready to go.

Salad with nuts

Figs are often added to a salad with walnuts, crumbled fennel and chopped bacon. A great dressing for this type of salad is vinaigrette, which you can make yourself or buy it in your supermarket. This is great if you are in a hurry but want to treat yourself to a tasty and filling lunch .

Stylish appetizer

If you have unexpected guests, you can welcome them with an easy treat. Wrap figs in thin slices of prosciutto and serve just like that. If you want to “upgrade” it a bit, add a small piece of cheese and wrap everything together. This will create a complex and exotic taste.

Figs and other dried fruit

Just for your information figs can be easily substituted with prunes, dried apricots or dates.

Desserts

You may also add figs to ice creams or frozen yogurts, regardless if you have a homemade or store-bought. Dried figs are also excellent in baking recipes such as muffins, breads, carrot cakes and many other recipes. And finally, dried figs can also be used on pizza – and goat cheese for example.

Preview photo: Pixabay