Tag: Cooking with figs

The term "fig oil" can refer to several different products, including edible, cold-pressed seed oil and potentially harmful essential oils or extracts, making it crucial to understand the source before consumption. While the fig fruit is a widely known culinary delight, oil from other parts of the plant presents varied safety considerations.

According to Medical News Today, 100 grams of raw figs is equivalent to about 2 medium figs, while 100 grams of dried figs amounts to roughly 12.5 pieces. The significant difference in count highlights the importance of distinguishing between fresh and dried figs when measuring portions for recipes or nutritional planning.

While the delicious fruit of the fig tree is well-known, many people are unaware that the leaves can also be used in cooking, provided they are prepared correctly. Yes, fig leaves from the edible fig tree (*Ficus carica*) are safe to consume when prepared properly, but they contain a milky sap that can be irritating and should be handled with caution.

Figs are one of the world's most ancient fruits, with a history spanning thousands of years, and two prominent varieties often face comparison: Black Mission and Turkish. Choosing which is better, black mission figs or Turkish figs, ultimately depends on your specific culinary needs and taste preference.