Finicky Fantastical Fresh Figs

I have recently taken a liking to fresh figs.  They are delightful, yet temperamentally little suckers.  Fresh figs are sweet, a little crunchy due to the seeds and a tad chewy.   It's really an experience that needs to be undertaken first hand.

Here are some guidelines to consider when dealing with fresh figs:

1. Figs will not ripen once picked, stay away from hard figs
2. Consume store bought figs within 3 days
3. Fig season runs from June to mid-October
4. You can eat the skin (I choose not to)
5. Select figs that are clean, dry, smooth & have unbroken skin
6. Figs should be soft & yielding, but not mushy
7. Stems should be firmly attached
8. If you smell sourness, walk away - the fig has turned
9. Store in the fridge
10. Figs (whole or sliced) can be frozen for up to 12 months
11. Dried figs don't even compare to fresh

Figs are a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin B6 and manganese.

I find 4-5 quartered fresh figs, paired with 4-5 Brazil nuts is a delightful afternoon treat!  Try figs in oatmeal, soy yogurt, a salad or a rice/couscous dish.


Keep it Healthy!

Sources:  http://homecooking.about.com/od/foodstorage/a/figstorage.htm
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=24