Held sacred in ancient times, the fig has been valued for its medicinal and culinary properties for more millenniums. A fruit of the Ficus tree, the color and texture of figs varies according to the variety of the tree. As a food source, figs are high in fiber and are rich in potassium, iron and calcium. The fruit also contains antioxidants, which has led to its worldwide reputation as a healing food. For a simple but elegant dessert, poach fresh figs in a sugar-based syrup, and serve the figs alone or with a selection of cheeses on the side.
Step 1
Trim the stalks from the end of the figs with a sharp knife, and place them in a large colander. Rinse the trimmed figs under cold, running water, and allow them to drain.
Step 2
Combine 2 cups water and the sugar, lemon, cinnamon stick, ginger and peppercorns in a saucepan, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3
Reduce the heat to low, and simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat source, and allow the liquid to cool slightly, stirring occasionally.
Step 4
Add the figs to the sugar water, and return the pot to the burner. Bring the figs to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer the figs until they are tender, about 6 or 7 minutes.
Step 6
Transfer the figs to a glass container, and allow them to cool.
Step 7
Serve the poached figs according to your favorite recipe, or cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
Tips and Warnings
- Whenever possible, pick your own figs, or buy them from your local farmers market. Figs that smell sour have begun to spoil and are too ripe to eat. Store fresh figs in the refrigerator for one or two days. For a richer flavor, use red or white wine as the cooking liquid instead of water.
Things You'll Need
- Colander
- Medium, non-reactive saucepan
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 small lemon, sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 slice of fresh ginger
- 1 tsp. fresh peppercorns
- 4 cups fresh figs
- Glass container
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