Figs are in Season: 5 Fun Things to do with Fresh Figs

WBC

We might think of a fig as a single fruit, but the reality is far sweeter. Figs actually inverted bouquets of flowers known as “inflorescence.” When you bite through that soft, fleshy skin and feel those lush crackles and pops of a fresh fig, what you’re chewing is an abundance of tiny flowers. These deliciously sweet flower bundles come into season in autumn, which means now is the ideal time in the southern hemisphere to head down to your local farmer’s market for some nectar-filled treats.

Figs adore a warm climate with plenty of sunshine and comfortable winters. They flourish in central New South Wales where many of Australia’s growers are located – although many fig varieties are homegrown and can tolerate several Australian and New Zealand climates. These treats come packed full of iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants, making them a powerhouse of nutrition for everyone; also coming in handy if you’re seeking an iron-rich replacement for animal products.

Here are 4 simple treats you can create with fresh figs

Vegan Fig Smoothie

This vegan smoothie recipe is pure magic, creating a true sense of decadence from 100% healthy ingredients. All you need to do is throw the following into your blender:

3 fresh figs
1 tbsp almond butter
1 cup almond milk
2 dates
1 frozen banana (peel and slice before freezing)

Feel free to experiment with the portions until you find your ideal balance of sweetness from the dates, nuttiness from the almond butter, and figginess from the figs!

Fig Salad

As much as we adore a healthy salad, they can get boring if you’re always rolling out the same ingredients. This is why we recommend keeping your salads fresh and exciting with seasonal produce.

Create salads that glow with the essence of Autumn by cutting up fresh, ripe figs and pairing them with complementary ingredients like arugula, baby spinach, basil, toasted walnuts, and goat cheese. To finish, balsamic vinegar or maple-based dressings pair beautifully with figs.

Eating seasonally is a rewarding experience, especially when it comes to figs. You get to support local growers and reduce your carbon footprint, all while giving your body the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Spiced Fig Preserve

Figs are picked just as they ripen, which is why they’re with us for such a short time. If you’ve scored a good deal on a sizable tray of fresh figs from the farmer’s market, making spiced jam is a great way to use up any that you don’t think you’ll be able to eat in time. Follow this recipe to have year-round access to the rich, warm flavour of perfectly preserved figs.

Fig and Burrata Platter

Fresh figs pair beautifully with fresh ricotta, burrata, and blue cheese. Add some favourite antipasto delights such caramelised nuts, pair with good wine, great company, and sensational sunsets and your special celebration is set.