Fresh White Figs

Country Of Origin: Turkey

Seasons/Availability 
​July To Mid September

Description
These pale green to pale yellow figs are sometimes called "white figs" for their light colour, and in bright sunshine, they really can take on a white-ish hue. You may also see them sold as "candy-striped figs," so named when their exteriors are pale green-and-white striped. Pretty as they are on the outside, it's their bright pink to brilliant red insides that win all the attention and provide their extra-sweet-even-for-figs flavour.

Uses
Pancetta, Italian unsmoked bacon, makes a tasty wrap for fresh figs; cook until the bacon is just crisp. To ripen, keep it at room temperature. To prepare, wash well; prepare as desired. To store, lay on paper towels; cover with plastic; refrigerate no longer than three days. Use ripe figs immediately. Handle carefully to prevent bruising. Figs may be frozen for up to six months.


​Benefits
Cholesterol-free, sodium-free and fat-free, the protein content in the fig is nearly twice as high as other dried fruits, and over ten times that of fresh fruits. High in fiber, figs are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, calcium, iron, magnesium, thiamine and potassium. A compound found in figs, called benzaldehyde, has been shown to help shrink tumors in some tests. Three medium figs have about 120 calories, and three dried figs contain about 143 calories.

Figs are considered to be an antibacterial and antiulcer food, as well as a natural laxative. Eating five daily servings of fruits and vegetables lowers the chances of getting cancer. A recent study found that nine or ten daily servings of fruits and vegetables with three servings of low-fat dairy products were effective in lowering blood pressure.