When it comes to stocking your pantry, it makes sense to keep dried figs in your mix and when it comes time to use them, start here: stewed figs. How to stew figs couldn’t be easier. We’ve got some ideas to get you cooking.
Soft & Sweet: Stewed Figs with Variations
Our Orchard Choice and Sun-Maid California Dried Figs have a long shelf-life. The resealable bag keeps them fresh and ready whenever you are. But sometimes, you want the texture to be soft. Here’s where stewed figs come in.
You can also make stewed figs using fresh figs—the timing will be shorter than cooking dried figs, but the texture should be the same as described in the recipe.
How to Stew Figs
Another way of thinking about stewed figs is you will be rehydrating them. This involves pouring a hot liquid over the figs and letting them steep. The temperature of the liquid softens them from the outside in, making them ready for everything from baked goods, salads, and tumbling into whole grains.
Ideas for Adding in Extra Flavor
The method for how to stew figs below is bare bones for a reason as it invites customizing. You can always use water, but to boost the flavor even more, think about swapping in orange juice or lemon juice like in this freekeh recipe. Or infuse in alcohol—figs love brandy and rum! Add savory flavor with broth. Lastly, try brewed tea or coffee.
Quick Hack
If you don’t have time or would prefer to not pull out a saucepan, bring a tea kettle to boil and pour over the stemmed dried figs in a bowl to steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Drain the water (or better yet! Save it—that water now is a fig-infused liquid you could use in baking bread or for cooking grains for extra flavor).
How To Stew California Figs
Ingredients
- Liquid
- 1 bag Orchard Choice or Sun-Maid California Figs stems removed
Instructions
- Place the figs in a saucepan. Pour in enough liquid just to cover them.
- Bring to a boil. Turn heat down and simmer figs for 15 minutes or until nudging them with a wooden spoon finds them soft.
- Drain figs. (Either reserve liquid for another use or discard.)
