Figs, with their unique sweetness and soft, chewy texture, are a beloved fruit enjoyed around the world. But for those new to figs, or perhaps living in an area where they aren’t as common, a simple question arises: do they even sell figs in stores? The answer, thankfully, is generally yes, but the specifics of where and when you can find them, and in what form, can be a bit more nuanced. This article will delve into the availability of figs in grocery stores, supermarkets, and specialty shops, exploring seasonal factors, different varieties, and the various forms in which figs are sold.
Fresh Figs: A Seasonal Delight
The availability of fresh figs is heavily dependent on the season. Figs are typically a late-summer and early-fall fruit, with their peak season generally running from August through October in many regions. Outside of this timeframe, finding fresh figs can be challenging.
Understanding Fig Seasons by Region
The specific timing of fig season can vary based on the climate of different regions. In warmer climates like California, which is a major fig-producing state in the United States, you might find figs slightly earlier, starting in late July. In areas with cooler summers, the season might not begin until late August or early September. Knowing your local growing season can help you predict when fresh figs will be available in your stores.
Where to Look for Fresh Figs
During fig season, your best bet for finding fresh figs is in the produce section of your local grocery store or supermarket. Look for them alongside other seasonal fruits like berries, peaches, and plums. Farmers’ markets are also excellent sources for fresh, locally grown figs during their peak season. Specialty produce stores or gourmet food shops may also carry them, often offering a wider variety of fig types.
Dried Figs: A Year-Round Staple
While fresh figs are a seasonal treat, dried figs are readily available year-round. Drying figs extends their shelf life and allows you to enjoy their sweetness and nutritional benefits any time of year.
The Convenience of Dried Figs
Dried figs are a convenient and versatile pantry staple. They can be eaten as a snack, added to baked goods, or used in savory dishes. Their concentrated sweetness and chewy texture make them a popular ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Where to Find Dried Figs
You can typically find dried figs in the dried fruit and nut section of most grocery stores and supermarkets. They are often packaged in bags or containers, and some stores may also sell them in bulk. Look for reputable brands and check the expiration date to ensure freshness. Health food stores and online retailers are also good sources for dried figs, often offering organic or specialty varieties.
Fig Products: Jams, Preserves, and More
Beyond fresh and dried figs, you can also find a variety of fig-based products in stores. These include fig jams, preserves, pastes, and even fig-flavored snacks.
Fig Jams and Preserves
Fig jam and preserves are a delicious way to enjoy the flavor of figs year-round. They are made by cooking figs with sugar and pectin, resulting in a sweet and spreadable product that can be used on toast, crackers, or as an accompaniment to cheese.
Fig Pastes and Spreads
Fig paste is a thick, dense product made from ground dried figs. It is often used as a filling for pastries or as an ingredient in energy bars and other snacks. Fig spreads are similar to fig jam, but may have a smoother texture or contain other fruits or spices.
Where to Purchase Fig Products
Fig jams, preserves, and pastes can usually be found in the jam and jelly aisle of grocery stores and supermarkets. Specialty food stores and gourmet shops often carry a wider selection of fig products, including imported varieties and unique flavor combinations. Online retailers are also a convenient option for purchasing fig products.
Types of Figs You Might Find
While the availability of specific fig varieties can vary by region and store, some common types of figs you might encounter include:
Black Mission Figs
Black Mission figs are one of the most popular varieties. They have a dark purple skin and a sweet, rich flavor. They are often used in baking and are also delicious eaten fresh.
Brown Turkey Figs
Brown Turkey figs are another common variety. They have a brownish-purple skin and a milder, less sweet flavor than Black Mission figs. They are often used in salads or as a topping for grilled meats.
Calimyrna Figs
Calimyrna figs are a larger, golden-colored variety with a nutty flavor. They are often dried and are popular in baking and snacking.
Kadota Figs
Kadota figs are a green-skinned variety with a thick skin and a mild flavor. They are often used in canning and preserving.
Tips for Buying Figs
Whether you’re buying fresh or dried figs, here are some tips to help you choose the best quality:
Selecting Fresh Figs
- Look for figs that are plump and slightly soft to the touch.
- Avoid figs that are bruised, damaged, or have a sour smell.
- Check the stem for any signs of mold or decay.
- Slight cracking in the skin of a fresh fig is normal and can indicate ripeness.
Choosing Dried Figs
- Look for dried figs that are plump and have a uniform color.
- Avoid dried figs that are overly hard or have a sugary coating.
- Check the expiration date to ensure freshness.
- Consider buying organic dried figs to avoid pesticides.
Storing Figs Properly
Proper storage is essential to maintaining the quality and flavor of figs.
Storing Fresh Figs
Fresh figs are best stored in the refrigerator. Place them in a single layer on a plate lined with paper towels and cover them loosely with plastic wrap. They will typically last for a few days in the refrigerator.
Storing Dried Figs
Dried figs should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. They can last for several months if stored properly. You can also store them in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
Nutritional Benefits of Figs
Figs are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a good source of fiber, potassium, calcium, and antioxidants.
Fiber Content
Figs are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels.
Potassium and Calcium
Figs are also a good source of potassium and calcium, which are important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and bone health.
Antioxidants
Figs contain antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Figs in Different Cuisines
Figs have been used in various cuisines for centuries, adding a unique sweetness and texture to dishes.
Mediterranean Cuisine
Figs are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, often used in salads, tagines, and desserts.
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Figs are also popular in Middle Eastern cuisine, where they are often used in savory dishes and as a topping for grilled meats.
American Cuisine
In American cuisine, figs are often used in baking, as a topping for pizza, or as an accompaniment to cheese.
Conclusion: Enjoying Figs Year-Round
While fresh figs are a seasonal treat, dried figs and fig products are readily available year-round. By knowing where to look and how to select the best quality figs, you can enjoy this delicious and nutritious fruit in a variety of ways. Whether you’re eating them fresh, dried, or in a jam, figs offer a unique flavor and texture that is sure to delight.
Where can I typically find fresh figs in grocery stores?
Figs are a seasonal fruit, so their availability in grocery stores depends heavily on the time of year. Generally, you’ll have the best luck finding fresh figs during late summer and early autumn, usually from August through October. Look for them in the produce section, often near other seasonal fruits like berries or stone fruits. Upscale grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and specialty produce shops are more likely to carry fresh figs than standard supermarkets.
When searching for figs, inspect them carefully. Look for fruits that are plump, slightly soft to the touch, and free from blemishes or bruises. Avoid figs that are hard, shriveled, or leaking juice, as these may be overripe or damaged. Consider the variety; some, like Black Mission figs, are more widely available than others.
What are the different types of figs I might encounter in stores?
Grocery stores typically carry a limited selection of fig varieties, but you’re most likely to find Black Mission, Brown Turkey, and Kadota figs. Black Mission figs are known for their dark purple skin, pink flesh, and rich, sweet flavor. They are a popular choice for eating fresh or using in jams and desserts.
Brown Turkey figs have a purplish-brown skin, light pink flesh, and a milder, less intense sweetness than Black Mission figs. They are also widely available and versatile. Kadota figs have a greenish-yellow skin, amber-colored flesh, and a mild, slightly nutty flavor. They are often canned or used in baking. Less common varieties, such as Calimyrna or Adriatic figs, might be found at specialty stores or farmers’ markets.
Are dried figs as readily available as fresh figs in stores?
Yes, dried figs are significantly more readily available than fresh figs year-round. Because drying preserves the fruit, grocery stores stock them in the dried fruit and nut aisle, often near prunes, raisins, and other dried fruits. Their longer shelf life and ease of transportation make them a staple item.
Dried figs come in various forms, including whole, halved, and diced. You can find them in resealable bags or tubs. Common varieties for drying include Black Mission and Calimyrna figs. Dried figs are a convenient and nutritious snack, and they are also used in baking, cooking, and as an ingredient in trail mixes.
How can I tell if the figs I find in the store are ripe and ready to eat?
Determining ripeness is key to enjoying fresh figs. Look for figs that are slightly soft to the touch, indicating they are juicy and ready to eat. The skin should be smooth and free from bruises or blemishes. The stem end may have a small tear or split, which is a sign of ripeness.
Avoid figs that are hard, green, or shriveled. These are likely underripe or past their prime. A slight weeping or oozing of syrup from the stem end is also a positive sign of ripeness, indicating the fig is full of sugars. Smell the figs; ripe figs will have a subtly sweet aroma.
What is the best way to store fresh figs after buying them from the store?
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the quality of fresh figs. Since they are highly perishable, it’s best to refrigerate them immediately after purchase. Place them in a shallow container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, and loosely cover them with plastic wrap or a lid.
Fresh figs are best consumed within a few days of purchase. Check them daily for signs of spoilage, such as mold or a sour smell. For longer storage, you can freeze fresh figs. Wash and dry them, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag for longer-term storage, up to several months.
Can I find fig-based products in stores other than fresh or dried figs?
Yes, you can find a variety of fig-based products in grocery stores. These include fig jams and preserves, fig newtons (cookies with fig filling), fig bars, and fig balsamic vinegar. These products provide a convenient way to enjoy the flavor of figs outside of their fresh season.
Look for fig jams and preserves in the jam and jelly aisle, often near other fruit preserves. Fig newtons and fig bars are typically found in the cookie and snack aisle. Fig balsamic vinegar can be found in the vinegar and salad dressing aisle, often near specialty vinegars and oils. Depending on the store, you might also find fig ice cream or other fig-flavored desserts in the frozen food section.
Are organic figs readily available in stores?
The availability of organic figs depends on the specific grocery store and the season. Larger grocery chains and stores specializing in organic produce are more likely to carry organic figs, both fresh and dried. During the peak fig season (late summer and early fall), the chances of finding organic fresh figs increase.
If you’re specifically looking for organic figs, check the produce section carefully for labeling indicating organic certification. Look for the USDA organic seal. In the dried fruit aisle, you can also find organic dried figs from various brands. Farmer’s markets are also a good source for locally grown organic figs when in season.