Brown Turkey Figs

Fresh figs are a favorite, which have withstood the test of time. They are known to have been one of the first fruits to be dried and stored and are thought to have been used as early as 2000 B.C. Figs are delicious by themselves, sliced on sandwiches, chopped and added to rice, or stuffed with cream cheese and chocolate.

There are hundreds of varieties and Melissa’s brings you some of the best. The Calimyrna Fig is known for its delicious nut-like flavor and tender, golden skin. It is the popular favorite for eating out of hand and as the name implies, it is the California version of the Smyrna fig. The Black Mission Fig was named after the mission fathers who planted the fruit as they made their way north along the California coast. It is famous for its distinctive flavor and deep purple hue that turns to black when dried. The Kadota Fig is the American version of the original Italian Dattato. It is thick-skinned and is a beautiful amber color when ripe. This fig is practically seedless and a favorite for canning and preserving, as well as drying. The Brown Turkey Fig is purplish-brown in color with green shades around its neck. The pulp is an amber color and it has a very mild flavor.

Prized as one of the most flavorful varieties in the marketplace, Tiger Fig is a unique fruit, not only because of its natural tiger stripes but also for its tasty insides.

The raspberry-citrus flavor on the inside of the fuchsia flesh and the green and yellow striped skin on the outside makes the Tiger Fig unlike any other variety; they are harvested late because they take all summer to develop high sugar content. Once fully ripe, the fruit has a rich, jam-like texture and consistency. Tiger Figs are great for drying, making into preserves, or just eating out of hand.

Good pairings for Tiger Figs include nuts, vinegar (balsamic and sherry), cured meats like prosciutto and ham, and warm spices like cinnamon.

Sweet yet mild, mellow yet rich…Black Mission Figs deserve their reputation as the most consistently delicious fresh fig available. While they have a flavor all their own, the taste could be described as a mix of strawberry, melon and banana flavors, with a pleasantly jammy, creamy texture.

Figs can be enjoyed just as they are, or prepared and cooked. They make an excellent addition to cheese platters and a welcome addition to salads with spicy greens. They are wonderful for homemade jams and preserves as well as cakes and muffins. Stuff figs with cheese or ham, or slice and include in grilled cheese sandwiches. Dip in chocolate for a luscious treat.

Beautiful, intriguing, delicious…fresh figs are a true seasonal treasure, and nothing beats figs from California’s Central Valley.

Our Heirloom Figs will contain whichever varieties our grower thinks taste best every week, and may include Black Mission, Tiger Stripe, Kadota, Sierra or Brown Turkey figs.