Dried Figs

Ficus carica

Origin / Harvest:

• USA / September–October

Description & History

Considered the world's first cultivated tree, the fig tree can be traced back to some of mankind's earliest historical documents. In the Bible, fig leaves served as the first clothing for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Native to the Middle East and Mediterranean, the fig tree was held sacred in all countries of Southwestern Asia, and in Egypt, Greece, and Italy. The fig was held in such high regard by the Greeks that laws were created to prevent the export of their finest–quality figs. As a token of honor, figs were used as a training food by the early Olympic athletes, and figs were also presented to the winners as the first Olympic “medal”.

Initially introduced to the Western World by the Spaniards in the 16th century, it wasn't until the late 19th century that fig trees were planted in California as the Spanish established missionaries from San Diego to San Francisco. During the early twentieth century, California fig farmers refined their cultivation and processing techniques. As a result, California is now one of the premier sources of figs.

There are literally hundreds of fig varieties, but only about half a dozen are grown commercially in California. We offer two of the most popular fig varieties:
Calimyrna – Noted for its delicious nut–like flavor and tender, golden skin, the Calimyrna fig is the popular favorite for eating out of hand. As the name implies, the Calimyrna is the California version of the Smyrna fig, which was imported by a San Joaquin Valley grower.
Mission (Black Mission) – Named for the mission fathers who planted the fruit as they traveled north along the California coast, the Mission fig is famous for its distinctive flavor. The fresh fruit exhibits a deep purple shade which darkens to a rich black when dried, making this fig an esthetic, as well as an edible, delight in all recipes.

Chopped figs and fig paste are available by custom order.

Uses

A naturally sweet treat dried or fresh, figs are most popular as a snack food. Chopped figs can be added to cooked cereals, yogurts, puddings, breads or muffins and even ice cream. Figs can also be incorporated into savory dishes including stews, stuffings, and pilafs. Fig paste is a popular binding agent for energy bars, fruit bars and cookies.

Nutrition

Figs are high in dietary fiber (the highest content of any common fruit, nut, or vegetable) and a good source of vitamin B6. Dried figs carry all of the nutritional benefits of a fresh fig but can be stored for longer periods.

Mission | Calimyrna