dried figs
Also Known as
Anjeer
Description
Thought to be the sweetest fruit, figs are also one of the oldest fruits recognized by man. It's no wonder the fig has been enjoyed for centuries. Figs grow on the Ficus tree, which is a member of the Mulberry family. They are unique in that they have an opening, called the "ostiole" or "eye," which is not connected to the tree. Figs range dramatically in color and subtly in texture depending upon the variety. A fig occupies a high position among fruits. The majority of figs are dried, either by exposure to sunlight or through an artificial process, creating a sweet and nutritious dried fruit that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Soaked dried figs Soak the dried figs in warm water for 15 mins. Drain them as they become soft. Dry the same in shelter. Further, enjoy on its own or can be used to make sauces, dessert, puree etc.
Dried figs pureed
To make dried figs puree, it is essential to soak it in warm water for a soft and smooth paste. Soak it in warm water for 15-20 minutes. Drain them as they become soft and add it to grinder and puree it. Add water for the required consistency and use as preferred.
How to Select
Dried figs are readily available in the market. Select figs that are clean and dry, with smooth, unbroken skin.
Culinary Uses
· Before eating or cooking figs, wash them under cool water and then gently remove the stem. Gently wipe dry. The skin of the dried fig being tough, the soaked fig is easy to digest.
· Dried figs can simply be eaten, used in a recipe as is, or simmered for several minutes in water or fruit juice to make them plumper and juicier. This can be topped on ice cream, yoghurt or desserts.
· Dried figs can be used interchangeably with prunes, dried apricots, and dates in most recipes.
· When chopping dried figs by hand with knife or scissors, dip cutting implement into warm water occasionally to prevent sticking. When chopping in a food processor, add some of the sugar called for in the recipe to prevent fruit from sticking.
· If dried figs seem hard or too dry, they can be soaked, steamed or poached to restore moisture.
· To separate dried figs that are stuck together, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds.
· When preparing oatmeal or any other whole grain breakfast porridge, add some dried figs.
· Figs are used as a sweetener. Hence often used for cakes, pudding, custards or jams.
· Its sweet, delicious flesh, long used as a sweetener before the advent of refined sugars, enhances both savory dishes and desserts.
· Figs are not only the main ingredient in a very popular cookie, the fig bar, but are a culinary delicacy par excellence.
How to Store
Dried figs can be stored in the original sealed package at room temperature for a month. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, six months to a year. Opened dried figs should be transferred to a sealable plastic bag and stored in the refrigerator.
Health Benefits
· High in potassium, iron, fiber and calcium
· Figs are also used for medicinal purposes as a diuretic and laxative.
· Excellent remedy for Piles. 2 or 3 dried figs soaked in hot water overnight, taken early morning works best.
· Gives comfort to people suffering from Asthma