What is a fig? A fig is an edible fruit that comes from a species of a small tree called Ficus Carica tree,
which is part of the flowering plant family Moraceae. Figs are native to the Mediterranean and West
Asia, although they are now grown throughout the world. There are over 800 different varieties of fig
trees, and the fruit color varies from black to light green. The best-known varieties are Brown Turkey,
Brunswick, Celeste, Hardy Chicago, Petite Negra, Black Mission, Kadota, Tiger, Sierra, Calimyrna and
White Marseilles. California grown Black Mission figs are some of the sweetest with a molasses-caramel
and assertive figgy flavor. Figs can be eaten fresh or dried, BBQed, processed into jelly or jam, used in
rolls, biscuits, and other types of desserts. Figs are a good source of both calcium and potassium for
added health benefits. Fresh figs have a short season, so the best place to find them now is at your local
farmers’ market.