FUN FACTS FOR FIGS… 

• Figs are one of the oldest know fruits in the world.
• Figs were known as the “Poor man’s food.”
• Dried Figs are high in fiber, iron and minerals.
• Fig trees can grow to a height of over 100 feet tall!
• Figs are the fruit mentioned most often in the Bible.
• Figs have mild laxative qualities.
• Figs produce protein-digesting enzymes that break down muscle and connective tissue in meat, making them an excellent tenderizer as well as flavor-enhancer.
• When chopping dried figs by hand with knife or scissors, dip cutting implement into warm water occasionally to prevent sticking.
• If dried figs seem hard or too dry, they can be soaked, steamed or poached to restore moisture. Use wine or juice!
• Dried figs can be used interchangeably with prunes, dried apricots, and dates in most recipes.
• 1 # dried figs = 44 whole figs ~ 1 # dried figs= 3 cups chopped.

Dried Fig Relish 

• 2/3 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup diced dried Calimyrna figs
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon pomegranate molasses
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds, lightly crushed, divided

Mix all ingredients together and let set for 15 minutes.  Use on lamb, pork or veal.