Figs are a versatile fruit that can add a unique flavour to many dishes. Whether you find them on at your local market or have the luxury of picking them fresh from your garden, there are many ways to enjoy them. It´s almost at the end of their season, so read on to ensure you make the most of those remaining.
Here are our top 10 simple ideas to help you make the most of this tasty fruit.
1. As a snack
One of the easiest ways to enjoy figs is to eat them fresh. Simply wash the them, cut them in half, and eat them as they are. They make a great snack or a healthy addition to your breakfast.
2. Jam or chutney 
Making fig jam or chutney is a great way to preserve the fruit and enjoy it year-round. For fig jam, cook chopped figs with sugar and a splash of lemon juice until thickened. For a more savoury option, make chutney by adding vinegar, onions, spices, and a touch of chili to the mix. Both can be stored in jars and enjoyed with cheese, bread, or meats.
3. Salad
A fig and goat cheese salad is a simple and delicious way to enjoy fresh figs. Combine mixed greens with sliced fresh figs, crumbled goat cheese, and a handful of walnuts or almonds. Drizzle with a dressing made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey for a sweet and tangy flavour.
4. With jamón or chorizo
For a Spanish-inspired tapa, pair figs with jamón (cured ham) or chorizo. Slice the figs in half and top with a piece of jamón or chorizo. Add a small piece of goat cheese or feta and drizzle with honey. This combination of sweet, salty, and savoury flavours is sure to be a hit.
5. Roasted
Roasting figs brings out their natural sweetness and makes for a simple dessert or side dish. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Cut the figs in half and place them in a baking dish. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped walnuts or almonds. Roast for 15-20 minutes, until they are soft and caramelised. Serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
6. Add to baked goods
Figs can also be a great addition to baked goods. Add chopped figs to muffins, cakes, or bread for extra flavour and texture. They work well in both sweet and savoury recipes, pairing nicely with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg or herbs like rosemary and thyme.
7. On toast
For a quick and easy breakfast or snack, top a slice of toasted bread with sliced figs, a smear of goat cheese or ricotta, and a drizzle of honey. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch. Alternatively, smother toast with crunchy peanut butter, adding some banana, figs and honey.
8. Smoothies
Figs can add natural sweetness to smoothies. Blend fresh or dried figs with yogurt, milk, and a handful of your favourite fruits for a healthy and filling drink. This is a great way to use up the fruits that are slightly overripe.
9. Pizza
Figs make a great topping for pizza, adding a sweet contrast to savoury ingredients. To make a fig and prosciutto pizza, spread a thin layer of olive oil on a pizza dough base. Add thinly sliced figs, crumbled goat cheese or mozzarella, and slices of prosciutto. Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at 220°C (425°F) until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted, about 10-15 minutes. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of fresh arugula for added flavour and texture.
10. Chicken
For a more elegant dish, try cooking chicken breasts with figs and white wine. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in a pan with olive oil until browned. Remove the chicken and add sliced figs to the pan, sautéing them briefly. Deglaze the pan with white wine, letting it reduce slightly. Add the chicken back to the pan, cover, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the figs are tender. Serve the chicken topped with the the fruit and sauce, accompanied by a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Nutritional value
Figs are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These nutrients contribute to bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Additionally, figs contain antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. With their combination of nutrients, they can be a healthy addition to your diet.
Figs offer a range of possibilities in the kitchen. Whether you prefer them fresh, cooked, or preserved, there are many simple and delicious ways to incorporate them into your meals. Next time you see figs at your local market or harvest them from your garden, try some of these ideas to enjoy their unique flavour.