The luscious lure of figs: A fiber-filled jewel
Figs are a special kind of delicious. Loved for their natural sweetness and satisfying texture, they're also a powerhouse of nutrition. High in fiber and packed with vitamins and minerals, figs are a great addition to your diet. Read on to learn about the health benefits of figs, how to use them in your meals, and tips for choosing and storing them.
Nutritional powerhouse in a small package
Figs are an excellent source of dietary fiber; a single medium-sized fig offers nearly 7% of the daily recommended value. They are also packed with vitamins A, B6, and K, and vital minerals such as potassium, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, and iron. So, they are not only beneficial for digestion but also for maintaining general health.
Versatile ingredient for sweet and savory dishes
Figs can be incorporated into numerous recipes. Their inherent sweetness is perfect for desserts such as cakes or tarts. But, they also shine in savory applications. Diced figs contribute a pop of flavor to salads or pizzas, and they complement cheeses like goat cheese or brie. For a simple yet delicious snack or appetizer, consider wrapping figs in thin slices of tofu and then baking them.
Selecting the perfect fig
When buying fresh figs, choose ones that are soft to the touch but not mushy. They should be richly colored without bruises. A sticky substance around the stem is a good sign - it means the fig is ripe and ready to be enjoyed! Keep in mind that figs are fragile fruits; handle them gently to prevent bruising.
Storing figs properly to extend freshness
Fresh figs are highly perishable and should be eaten within two days if left at room temperature or within five days when stored in the refrigerator. To keep them longer, freeze figs on a baking sheet before moving to an air-tight container where they can be stored for up to six months. They can be used frozen in smoothies or slightly thawed as a refreshing cold treat.
Incorporating figs into your daily diet
Incorporating figs into your diet is easy: slice them into your morning cereal or yogurt; blend them into smoothies; or utilize them as natural sweeteners in baking recipes in place of sugar. And, for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, dried figs offer a great low-sodium snack option as opposed to processed foods which are typically high in salt.
