Black Mission Figs
Black Mission figs are the ones with the deep purple skin and honey-pink center, sweet enough to feel like dessert straight from the bag.
What It Is
Named for the California missions where they were planted in the 1700s, Black Mission is one of the oldest fig varieties grown in the Americas, though the tree itself traces back to the Mediterranean. Dried, the fruit concentrates into something almost jammy, with a flavor that sits between brown sugar and berries. The tiny seeds give every bite a gentle crunch.
They are naturally very sweet, which makes them useful in the kitchen wherever you want sweetness with a little more character than plain sugar.
What To Do
Eat them as they are, or chop and stir into oatmeal, yogurt, or a grain salad with arugula and walnuts. They pair well with sharp cheeses and cured meats on a snack board. To soften them for baking or a sauce, cover with hot water and let sit ten minutes, then drain. Simmer the soaking liquid down with a splash of balsamic vinegar and you have a quick glaze for pork or chicken.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a few weeks, or refrigerate for up to six months.
