Figs in honey

Figs in Honey – A Winter Delicacy

Who doesn't adore the sweet and enticing aroma of figs infused with honey? This simple yet captivating recipe will teach you how to preserve figs so you can enjoy them all year round. It's a special recipe, perfect for adding a touch of magic to those cold winter days when each spoonful brings back memories of summer.

Preparation time: 30 min
Dehydration time: 24 hours (depending on the method chosen)
Total time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Depends on the size of the jars used

Your basic ingredients:
- 1.5 kg of fresh figs
- Honey, enough to cover the figs (approximately 500 ml)

A bit of history
Figs have been cultivated throughout history, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional properties. These sweet fruits, rich in fiber and antioxidants, have been used for centuries in healthy diets and various culinary preparations. Preserving figs in honey is a traditional method that not only keeps them fresh but also enhances their flavor.

Step by step – Preparing figs in honey

1. Selecting the figs
Choose ripe, firm figs that are not too soft. Make sure they are free from blemishes or defects. This is a crucial step, as high-quality figs will yield the best results.

2. Dehydrating the figs
There are several dehydration methods, but the most popular is using a food dehydrator. If you don't have one, you can use the oven:
- Wash the figs thoroughly under cold water and dry them with a clean towel.
- Cut them in halves or quarters, depending on your preference.
- Place the figs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat the oven to 60°C (140°F) and leave the figs in the oven for 8-12 hours, checking occasionally. The figs should be dried but not completely dehydrated, retaining a slightly soft texture.

3. Sterilizing the jars
While the figs are dehydrating, sterilize the jars you will use:
- Wash the jars and lids in hot soapy water.
- Rinse them well and place them in the oven at 120°C (250°F) for 15-20 minutes to sterilize.

4. Assembling the figs with honey
- Take the dehydrated figs and carefully place them in the sterilized jars.
- Pour honey over them, ensuring each fig is fully covered. The honey will not only preserve them but also add a delicious flavor.
- Place the lids on the jars and seal them tightly.

5. Storage
- Store the jars in your pantry, in a cool, dark place. After a few days, the honey will turn into a light syrup, and the figs will become even more flavorful.
- Allow them time to meld for an even better result.

Serving suggestions
Figs in honey can be served as is, as a delicious dessert, but I recommend trying them paired with aged cheeses on a cheese platter. You can also add the figs to Greek yogurt or a salad with arugula and walnuts for a burst of flavors.

Frequently asked questions
1. How long can I keep figs in honey?
If stored properly, figs in honey can last up to a year.

2. Can I use a different type of honey than regular honey?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of honey, such as linden or wildflower honey, to add different flavor notes.

3. What can I do with the resulting syrup?
You can use the honey syrup as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or add it to hot beverages for a sweet taste.

Tips and variations
- You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves to the honey for an extra flavor boost.
- Try adding some nuts to the jars for a crunchy texture.
- If you prefer a more intense fig flavor, let them marinate in honey for a few weeks before consuming.

Calories and nutritional benefits
Figs are rich in fiber, vitamins A, B, and K, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. A serving of figs in honey (approximately 100 g) contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of honey used.

This recipe for figs preserved in honey is not only delicious but will also bring a touch of sunshine to the darker days of winter. So, embrace this simple yet flavorful recipe and enjoy the taste of summer even on the coldest days!