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Figs - calorie count, nutritional value, attributes, recipes
Table of Contents
1. A concise description of the common fig
The common fig (Ficus carica) is a fruit from the mulberry family, native to the Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East, but also cultivated in Southern Europe and Asia Minor. There are several varieties of this fruit, such as Dalmatian figs, goat figs, also known as capryphs, which are not suitable for consumption, and Smyrna figs, considered to be of the highest quality. Common figs are dark purple, have the shape of an elongated pear, and are often covered with a white coating, which is sometimes mistakenly seen as mold. In reality, it is a sign of good quality fruit. Figs have a very sweet taste and a slightly bland aftertaste. They can be found on the market in fresh or dried form.2. It's a sum of calories
Figs are fruits that have a high caloric value compared to many other fruits. Both fresh and dried figs primarily consist of sugars, including fructose and glucose. Dried fruits can contain up to 70% sugar content. Of course, figs also contain many other nutrients that make them nutritious. However, the high percentage of sugar content means that 100 grams of dried figs can contain up to 249 kcal, and in the same amount of their fresh equivalents - 74 kcal.3. Health and aesthetic components of figs
Figs are a true treasure of components having a positive impact on health and aesthetics. Both fresh and dried fruits of this type contain large amounts of necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are the primary source of vitamins A, C, K, and B, as well as calcium, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, phosphorus, and iron. Furthermore, they represent a significant reserve of pectins and fiber.4. Characteristics of the common fig tree
The fruits of the common fig tree, due to their rich composition, have a positive impact on health. Thanks to their high calcium content, they are an excellent way to prevent osteoporosis. They also strengthen teeth and bones. They are recommended for both women above 50 years of age and children in their diet. Figs are also rich in phytosterols, making them a great health product for women experiencing menopause symptoms. Additionally, figs are beneficial in case of cardiovascular diseases, as the potassium contained in them helps lower blood pressure. The dietary fiber present in figs also aids in lowering cholesterol levels, which protects against strokes and atherosclerosis. Figs can also help combat constipation, as they contain the most dietary fiber among all dried fruits. However, it is important to ensure adequate fluid intake, as a deficiency when consuming high amounts of dietary fiber can have the opposite effect. Figs are also beneficial in cases of stress and insomnia, as the magnesium contained in them improves the functioning of the nervous system, and the B vitamins improve memory and concentration. Vitamins A, C, and E also help maintain healthy skin and improve vision.5. The prevalent regulations for figs
The application of fresh fig fruits is not yet widely prevalent in Poland, with their usage being more noticeable in dried form. This may be attributed to fear of the unknown, however, figs do not require complex culinary processing. To prepare fresh fig fruits, simply wash them under running water, divide them into smaller parts, spread and consume their pulp using a spoon. No peeling is necessary as the skin is also suitable for consumption. Due to their taste, these fruits are primarily used in desserts. Dried figs make an excellent addition to cakes or cereal bars. Fresh fruits can also be used to prepare liqueurs or as an additional ingredient in salads or cocktails.6. Grain sticks with dried figs (2 servings)
Ingredients: - mountain oat flakes (80 g), - warm water (70 ml), - walnuts (25 g), - pumpkin seeds (25 g), - cinnamon crumbs, - dried apricots (25 g), - dried figs (40 g). Preparation: 1. Pulverize the dry flakes in a mixer, add warm water and cinnamon crumbs, and mix them thoroughly. The mixture should be very dense. 2. Cut the nuts and seeds into small pieces, and divide the fruits into smaller portions. 3. Add the dried fruits to the flake mixture, mix, and shape into sticks, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 4. Bake for 30 minutes at 180°C. Let cool after baking.7. A salad with fresh mozzarella and figs
Ingredients: fresh spinach (50 g), fresh figs (2 slices), fresh mozzarella cheese (50 g), Italian nuts (20 g), fresh mint (a small handful), olive oil (10 g, i.e., spoon), balsamic vinegar (5 g, i.e., spoon), salt and pepper to taste. Preparation: 1. Wash the spinach, dry it, and arrange it on a plate. 2. Wash the figs, dry them, and cut them into pieces. Add them to the spinach. 3. On a layer of figs and spinach, add grated mozzarella cheese, and then sprinkle with chopped nuts and mint. 4. Prepare a dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and spices, and pour it over the salad. The common fig tree is one of the oldest cultivated fruit trees. It is mentioned in the Bible and Greek myths. Figs are very valuable for health and beauty, even though they are high in calories. It is recommended to consume them in moderation, with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
