Figs (Ficus carica) are oval to pear shaped fruits with a thin edible outer skin, mushy pink pulp, and tiny white seeds.
Health Benefits of Figs:- Reduced Risk of Colon Cancer
- Alleviation of Cardiovascular Disease
- Alleviation of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Osteoporosis Protection
- Stroke Prevention
How to choose Figs: Figs are best when they are mushy and soft, but you can buy figs firm and allow them to ripen at home. Look for figs with a good smell, and few blemishes.
Climate and origin: Figs originated in Asia minor and are one of the first fruits to be cultivated. Figs do best in warm temperate to sub-tropical climates, but there are some hardy varieties which can grow in colder climates. (zones 5-10 in the U.S.)
Taste: Figs have a subtle fragrant taste and the degree of sweetness varies widely by variety.
Miscellaneous information: The most popular fig for drying and shipping, Black Mission Figs get their name from Spanish Missionaries who introduced figs to San Diego California in the late 1800s.
