Dried figs are a delicacy that has been enjoyed for centuries, and their sweet, jam-like flavor is a perfect addition to various dishes. However, when dried figs sit around for too long, they can become dry and hard, losing their natural sweetness and texture. If you have a stash of old dried figs that you’re not sure what to do with, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the various ways to revive and use old dried figs, from rehydrating them to incorporating them into delicious recipes.
Rehydrating Old Dried Figs
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about rehydrating old dried figs. This process is essential to restore their natural texture and flavor. Here are a few methods to rehydrate old dried figs:
Method 1: Soaking in Water
Soaking old dried figs in water is the simplest way to rehydrate them. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the dried figs in a bowl or container.
- Cover them with water, making sure that the figs are completely submerged.
- Let them soak for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
- Drain the water and rinse the figs with fresh water.
Method 2: Soaking in Liquid of Choice
You can also soak old dried figs in a liquid of your choice, such as fruit juice, wine, or tea. This method not only rehydrates the figs but also infuses them with flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the dried figs in a bowl or container.
- Cover them with your chosen liquid, making sure that the figs are completely submerged.
- Let them soak for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
- Drain the liquid and rinse the figs with fresh water.
Method 3: Steaming
Steaming is another way to rehydrate old dried figs. This method is quick and easy, and it helps preserve the figs’ natural flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the dried figs in a steamer basket.
- Steam them for 5-10 minutes, or until they’re soft and pliable.
- Remove the figs from the steamer and let them cool.
Cooking with Old Dried Figs
Now that we’ve covered rehydrating old dried figs, let’s talk about cooking with them. Here are some delicious recipe ideas that showcase the versatility of dried figs:
Fig and Brie Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets are perfect for appetizers or snacks. Here’s how to make them:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out puff pastry and cut out small squares.
- Place a spoonful of rehydrated figs in the center of each square.
- Top with a slice of brie cheese and fold the pastry in half.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Fig and Prosciutto Salad
This salad is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine mixed greens, sliced prosciutto, and rehydrated figs in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Top with shaved parmesan cheese and serve.
Fig and Chicken Tagine
This Moroccan-inspired stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cold winter nights. Here’s how to make it:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, and ginger, and cook until the onions are translucent.
- Add chicken, rehydrated figs, and spices, and cook until the chicken is browned.
- Add chicken broth and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Baking with Old Dried Figs
Old dried figs are also a great addition to baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and breads. Here are some recipe ideas that showcase the sweetness of dried figs:
Fig and Walnut Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for special occasions. Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Combine flour, sugar, eggs, and rehydrated figs in a bowl.
- Add chopped walnuts and mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Fig and Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies are perfect for snacking on the go. Here’s how to make them:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine flour, oats, sugar, eggs, and rehydrated figs in a bowl.
- Add chopped nuts and mix until well combined.
- Scoop the dough into balls and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Preserving Old Dried Figs
If you don’t plan to use your old dried figs immediately, you can preserve them for later use. Here are some methods to preserve dried figs:
Freezing
Freezing is a great way to preserve dried figs for up to 6 months. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the rehydrated figs in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Store in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
Dehydrating
Dehydrating is another way to preserve dried figs for up to 6 months. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
- Place the rehydrated figs in a single layer on the dehydrator trays.
- Dehydrate for 6-8 hours, or until the figs are dry and chewy.
Conclusion
Old dried figs may seem like a lost cause, but with a little creativity and know-how, you can revive their flavor and texture. From rehydrating them to incorporating them into delicious recipes, there are countless ways to use old dried figs. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, we hope this guide has inspired you to get creative with dried figs. So next time you’re rummaging through your pantry and come across a stash of old dried figs, don’t throw them away – revive them and enjoy their sweet, jam-like flavor.
What are old dried figs and how do I identify them?
Old dried figs are dried figs that have been stored for a long time, often for several months or even years. They can be identified by their dry, wrinkled appearance and their sweet, nutty aroma. They may also have a slightly chewy texture and a more intense flavor than fresh figs.
When identifying old dried figs, look for signs of drying, such as wrinkles and a leathery texture. You can also check the color, which may have darkened over time. If you’re unsure whether the figs are still good to use, you can try rehydrating them by soaking them in water or another liquid. If they rehydrate well and have a pleasant flavor, they’re likely still usable.
How do I store old dried figs to keep them fresh?
To store old dried figs, keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This will help to preserve their flavor and texture. You can also store them in the refrigerator or freezer to extend their shelf life.
When storing old dried figs, make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture. You can also add a packet of silica gel or uncooked rice to the container to absorb any moisture and keep the figs dry. If you’re storing them in the refrigerator or freezer, make sure to label the container with the date and contents.
What are some ways to use old dried figs in cooking and baking?
Old dried figs can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet treats like cakes and cookies to savory dishes like stews and salads. They can be rehydrated by soaking them in water or another liquid, or they can be used dry in recipes like trail mix and granola.
Some ideas for using old dried figs include making a fig compote to serve with yogurt or oatmeal, adding them to a salad with prosciutto and arugula, or using them in a homemade energy bar recipe. You can also use them to make a sweet and savory chutney to serve with grilled meats or cheeses.
Can I use old dried figs in place of fresh figs in recipes?
In some cases, old dried figs can be used in place of fresh figs in recipes, but it’s not always a direct substitution. Because dried figs are more concentrated than fresh figs, you may need to adjust the amount used and the liquid content of the recipe.
When substituting old dried figs for fresh figs, start by rehydrating the dried figs by soaking them in water or another liquid. Then, use them in place of the fresh figs in the recipe, adjusting the amount and liquid content as needed. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the dish may be slightly different than if you were using fresh figs.
Are old dried figs still nutritious?
Yes, old dried figs are still a nutritious food, even after they’ve been stored for a long time. They’re a good source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, and they contain a variety of other vitamins and minerals.
Because dried figs are more concentrated than fresh figs, they’re also more calorie-dense. However, they can still be a healthy addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Look for old dried figs that are free from added sugars and preservatives to get the most nutritional benefits.
Can I grow my own figs and dry them at home?
Yes, you can grow your own figs and dry them at home. Fig trees are relatively easy to grow, and they can thrive in a variety of climates. To dry your own figs, you can use a food dehydrator or simply dry them in the sun.
When growing your own figs, make sure to choose a variety that’s well-suited to your climate and provide the tree with plenty of sunlight and water. To dry your figs, start by washing and preparing them, then dry them in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a food dehydrator. You can also dry them in the sun by placing them on a wire rack or paper towels and covering them with cheesecloth or a mesh screen.