Figs, celebrated for their rich yet delicate sweetness, can be enjoyed fresh or paired with salads and cheeses. This versatile fruit appeals to all age groups and is commonly used in various culinary creations, from appetizers to desserts. Often referred to as the fruit adored by Cleopatra, figs have long been cherished for their numerous benefits. But what makes this fruit so beloved?
A Fruit Without Flowers: The Fig
The fig is a unique fruit that lacks visible flowers on its exterior. While it resembles a typical fruit, the edible portion inside is actually a flower. The outer skin serves as the receptacle of this flower, while the juicy interior represents the flower itself. Additionally, the juice of the fig can be seen as the nectar produced by the fig flower.
Is the White Sap Edible?
When eating figs, you may notice a white sap oozing from the skin or stem, leading some to believe it’s inedible mistakenly. This white sap, known as ficin, is a type of proteolytic enzyme. Ficin has beneficial properties, including inhibiting carcinogenic factors, making it a healthful component. Although the sap may taste slightly bitter, it is safe to consume.
It’s Best to Eat the Whole Fig
Eating figs with the skin is beneficial, as they are rich in minerals, dietary fiber, and various nutrients. Figs found in markets often contain a high level of anthocyanins in their skin, making it advisable to consume them whole. To enjoy them safely, wash figs with a diluted solution of vinegar or baking soda before eating.
High Sugar Content and Nutrients
Figs are not only deliciously sweet but also offer a range of health benefits. Rich in pectin, figs help reduce harmful cholesterol levels that can damage blood vessels. They are also high in potassium, effectively regulating blood pressure and preventing hypertension. Figs are abundant in vitamin K and magnesium, making them excellent for preventing osteoporosis and maintaining bone health.
Are Figs Good for Everyone?
Dried figs, commonly found in grocery stores, are very sweet, so avoiding excessive consumption is important. This is especially crucial for individuals with conditions like hyperlipidemia, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome, as they should be particularly cautious with fig intake. Moreover, under-ripe figs can lead to allergic reactions around the lips and mouth due to a white latex substance, which may cause skin rashes. Therefore, it’s essential to eat only fully ripe figs.
Eating Too Many Can Make Your Tongue Tingle
Consuming many figs may lead to a tingling or burning sensation on the tongue. This reaction is primarily due to ficin, a protein-digesting enzyme present in figs. While ficin is found in other fruits, figs can elicit a more intense response because of another compound known as calcium oxalate. This substance forms tiny crystals that can cause minor injuries to the mucous membranes in the mouth. Excessive consumption may result in discomfort and could even lead to bleeding. These calcium oxalate crystals can linger in the mouth for an extended period, making them difficult to rinse away.
A Unique Way to Wash Figs
When washing figs, avoid positioning them with the stem facing upward. Instead, lay the stem and the open end flat and rinse them under running water. This method prevents water from seeping into the flesh through the open end. If the flower inside is full, water won’t enter; however, if the flower is slightly hollow or if the fig is overly ripe, the outer skin may expand, allowing water to seep in.
Eat Them Fresh, Not Ripened
Figs are best enjoyed fresh rather than ripened after purchase. Like pineapples, green figs won’t develop sweetness easily even if you buy firm, green figs. Figs are climacteric fruits with a short shelf life and can spoil quickly if not fully ripe. The term climacteric refers to a significant increase in cellular respiration during ripening, which is associated with ethylene gas production. Other examples of climacteric fruits include avocados, melons, and tomatoes.
Can They Be Stored in the Freezer?
Figs offer numerous nutritional benefits, but their short shelf life is a significant drawback. With their thin and delicate skin, fresh figs spoil easily, often becoming mushy within just a few days of purchase. For this reason, many people opt for dried figs; however, enjoying figs in their fresh state during peak season truly highlights their unique charm. To keep figs fresh, wrap them in a paper towel, place them in a sealed plastic bag, and store them in the refrigerator. Freezing figs is also an excellent option. Frozen figs can be used in smoothies or made into jams, allowing you to enjoy them for an extended period.
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