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Figs

In season Autumn

Food Description:

First cultivated in Egypt, about 6000 years ago, figs were Cleopatra's favourite fruit. The fig leaf became the symbol of modesty in the book of Genesis when Adam and Eve first used the leaves to cover their private parts. When figs found their way into Ancient Greece, the Greeks held them in such high esteem they prevented their export: Such is the love we had, and still to this day have, for figs.
In some cultures the leaves are eaten, both for culinary and medicinal benefits. Studies have shown that fig leaves have anti-diabetic properties and reduce the amount of insulin required by insulin dependent diabetics.
There's about a two day window when buying figs, they are extremely perishable and delicate. When ripe they are soft and sweet, with a firm stem, and may even be slightly oozing with sweet syrup.

General Information:

Category: Fruit
To Buy: Buy fresh figs loose if possible to inspect all around the fruit. Look for plump fruit with the skin intact. the skin should not be wrinkled or oozing. Dried figs should be plump and spongy to touch.
To Store: Figs are extremely perishable and ideally should be used soon or on the day they're purchased. They can be stored in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. Dried figs stored in an airtight glass container will last for up to 1 year or longer.
Tips and Tricks:

Nutrition (1 Unit):

Weight (grams): 40
Carbohydrates, g: 3.2
Fat (g): 0.1
Monosaturated Fat , g: 0.0
Salicylates: Naturally occurring plant chemicals found in several fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices, jams, honey, yeast extracts, tea and coffee, juices, beer and wines. Also present in flavourings, perfumes, scented toiletries and some medications. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. High
Energy (kJ): 74
Protein (g): 0.5
Saturated Fat, g : 0.0
Amines: Amines come the breakdown or fermentation of proteins. High amounts are found in cheese, chocolate, wine, beer and yeast extracts. Smaller amounts are present in some fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, avocados, bananas. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. High
Glutamates: Glutamate is found naturally in many foods, as part of protein. It enhances the flavour of food, which is why foods rich in natural glutamates such as tomatoes, mushrooms and cheeses are commonly used in meals. Pure monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as an additive to artificially flavour many processed foods, and should be avoided, especially in sensitive individuals as it can cause serious adverse reactions. n/a

Cooking:

Cooking Tips: Fresh figs are exquisite as they are, added to salads with goats cheese, or baked in honey. Dried figs are delicious poached or used in baking.

Benefits the Following Health Conditions:*

Constipation

* This information is sourced by a qualified naturopath. It is non prescriptive and not intended as a cure for the condition. Recommended intake is not provided. It is no substitute for the advice and treatment of a professional practitioner.



Disclaimer:
The Food Coach provides all content as is, without warranty. The Food Coach is not responsible for errors or omissions, or consequences of improper preparation, user allergies, or any other consequence of food preparation or consumption.

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