What are figs?
The fig plant is a small tree that can grow anywhere from 3 to 30 feet. The tree bears fruit which are the figs. If you have the patience, growing these gems of flavor is well worth it. Humans have been consuming this fruit for thousands and thousands of years, dating back to approximately 7000 years ago. Originating around Northern Asia, figs captivated Greeks and Romans, which led the fruit to spread around the Mediterranean region. Around 1520, it is believed that missionaries traveled to Southern California, bringing the fig, which led to the development of the mission fig variety. Evidence of figs has been found during excavations of neolithic sites and is believed to be one of history’s first domesticated crops.
Jump to the recipe.
Before the widespread use of sugar, figs were used as a way to sweeten foods, especially desserts. The combination of ingredients in this dish plays very well together. Fig enhances the flavor of some dairy products like blue cheese and shares similar chemical aromatic compounds as wood - having the thyme brings even more balance to the dish. Arugula’s light bitterness will complement the dish; endive is a great substitute if you’re not a fan of arugula. A final drizzle of honey will tie everything together, leaving the blue cheese even more balanced.
Varieties of figs:
How to grow figs?
Ensuring a successful yield requires patience and research, which is why our expert horticulturist at Burpee has taken the time to compile a comprehensive growing guide dedicated to figs. View the fig growing guide here.
Create this recipe at home with ease!
Enjoy as a simple appetizer or snack!
Ingredients:
⁃ 8-10 figs
⁃ Blue cheese (whole or crumbled)
⁃ 1-2 sprigs of Thyme (tsp if dried thyme)
⁃ Honey
⁃ Arugula (optional)
⁃ Toast (optional)
Recipe:
1. Halve figs and dot (about the size of a quarter) with blue cheese.
2. Sprinkle with fresh thyme and a bit of flakey salt and then drizzle generously with honey.
3. Eat with a fork, on toasted bread or with a simple salad of arugula.