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What Are Figs
Figs are honeyed fruits that have graced tables from ancient times to modern-day gourmet kitchens and are not just a treat for the palate but a journey through history and geography.
While many are familiar with figs through the iconic Fig Newtons, the story of figs stretches back thousands of years, with roots believed to be in western Asia or North Africa.
As one of the first plants to be cultivated by humans, figs have played a pivotal role in the diets and cultures of ancient civilizations, from the Greeks and Romans to societies in China and India.
What Month Do Figs Ripen?
Typically, figs have two main harvest times: the "breba" crop ripens in late spring to early summer, while the "main" crop finds its sweetness from late summer to early fall.
The ripening of figs is a much-anticipated event, marking the transition from late spring into the heart of summer and then into the early embrace of fall.
However, the exact months can vary based on your locale and the fig variety.
Popular Fig Varieties and Their Seasons
- Black Mission Figs: Known for their deep purple skin and sweet, rich flavor, these figs mark the early summer into fall.
- Calimyrna Figs: Lighter in color with a nutty taste, their season is the shortest, from mid-spring to early summer.
- Brown Turkey Figs: Boasting the longest season from late summer into early winter, they are versatile and widely loved.
- Kadota Figs: With a season from late spring into early summer, Kadota figs offer a mildly sweet flavor ideal for canning and drying.
Fig Regions Across the United States
The United States boasts a diverse climate that supports fig cultivation in several regions, each with its fig seasonality.
Southwest
Figs thrive in the warm, arid climate of the Southwest, ripening from early summer through fall. Due to its ideal growing conditions, this region often enjoys an extended fig season.
Varieties such as the Black Mission and the Brown Turkey figs are particularly well-suited to this climate. They offer bountiful harvests that can be enjoyed fresh off the tree or incorporated into a myriad of dishes.
Midwest
The Midwest's season is shorter, with figs typically ripening in late summer. Gardeners in this region often grow figs in containers to protect them from colder temperatures, moving them indoors during winter.
Despite the challenges, varieties like the Hardy Chicago can produce an impressive crop, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to the heartland of America.
Pacific Northwest
The cool, moist climate of the Pacific Northwest challenges fig growers, but with the right varieties and care, figs can ripen from late summer into early fall.
The Olympian fig, known for its cold hardiness and sweet, large fruits, is a favorite among gardeners in this region. The unique climate contributes to a distinct flavor profile, with figs often exhibiting a richer, more concentrated sweetness.
Southeast
In the Southeast, the warm, humid climate extends the fig season, allowing a variety of figs to ripen from the early summer months well into the fall. The Celeste fig stands out, affectionately known as the "sugar fig" for its profound sweetness.
This variety flourishes, yielding petite yet delectable fruits ideal for both fresh consumption and preservation. The region's bountiful fig harvest promises ample shares for friends and family and serves as a wonderful base for crafting delightful jams, preserves, and baked treats.
When Are Figs Ready to Pick?
Knowing when to harvest figs is crucial for enjoying them at their best. A ripe fig will be soft to the touch, and its skin may crack, revealing a hint of the sweetness inside. When picked, the fruit will hang downward and should detach easily from the tree.
This moment of ripeness is fleeting, as figs quickly move from underripe to perfectly sweet to overripe. Gardeners learn to recognize the subtle changes in their figs, harvesting them at just the right time to capture their peak flavor.
Will Figs Ripen If You Pick Them Green?
The answer is no; figs do not ripen off the tree. Figs should be harvested only when fully ripe for the best taste and texture. This characteristic distinguishes figs from many other fruits, which can continue to ripen after being picked.
Can You Eat Unripe Figs?
Can you eat unripe figs? The answer is yes, but they may not taste as sweet as ripe. Unripe figs are savory and have a longer shelf life.
Dried figs are available year-round and are a great way to enjoy the sweetness of figs when they are out of season.
How Can I Ripen Figs More Quickly?
There are a few ways to speed up the ripening process of figs. One way is to place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana.
The ethylene gas emitted by these fruits will help to ripen the figs more quickly. Another way is to place the figs on a sunny windowsill. The warmth from the sun will also help to ripen them faster.
Finally, you can put them in the oven at a low temperature for a short period of time. This will cause the figs to soften and become sweeter, but be careful not to overcook them or become mushy.
Where To Buy Figs
For those without a fig tree, fret not. Figs can be found in grocery stores, farmers' markets, and specialty food shops, especially during peak season.
When buying figs, look for soft, fragrant fruit that gives slightly to pressure, a sign of perfect ripeness. Avoid figs that are overly firm or show signs of bruising, as these may not provide the optimal eating experience.
Farmers' markets, in particular, can be a great source for fresh, locally grown figs, offering a chance to explore different varieties and learn more about how and where they were grown.
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