Figs are such a cool fruit! They have a totally different flavor, texture and color in some cases compared to anything I have ever tried. Fresh figs come in different colors, but the principles are still the same: they are delicious when harvested ripe, and they have a very short shelf-life. That is why it is to your advantage to know how to best select and store fresh figs to get the best user experience!
(This post is an excerpt from The Produce Nerd’s Grocery Guide, with input provided by Francesca Marchini Fordice from J. Marchini Farms. You can learn more about the Grocery Guide, which covers this information for 55 different produce items, with input from 26 crop-specific companies HERE.)
What to look for when picking the best quality figs?
- Look for tender to firm fruit. Be prepared to enjoy your figs within a few days after purchase.
Common issues to avoid when selecting figs?
- Underripe (hard like an apple)
- Over-ripeness (mushy)
- Mold
What is the best way to store figs at home?
- Figs are perishable and are best if enjoyed soon after being purchased.
- We suggest storing figs in a single layer, on a plate or a very shallow bowl lined with a paper towel. Cover with plastic wrap to avoid getting crushed or absorbing other odors.
- A clever storage suggestion is to use a clean, empty egg carton.
- Wait to wash your figs with water until right before use to eliminate the risk of mold.
Are there any common things that consumers should look for not mentioned above?
- Buying in season is the key with fresh figs. California is the largest fig producing state and the season is from June to November. We highly recommend only purchasing California figs to get the best quality. Off season figs will come from Greece, Turkey, Mexico, and Chile and typically need to be flown in.
What is your favorite way to eat and prepare fresh figs?
- We love to eat figs when they are perfectly ripe, as they are delicious as a piece of candy! They can also be added to appetizers, such as wrapped with prosciutto, paired with goat cheese and honey, added to salads, cooked on a pizza, or in a variety of deserts like ice cream, tarts, and cakes.
If you would like to learn more about figs, you can check out the following posts: