Figs can often be found in stores, but there may be problems with the choice. Choosing figs correctly, based on external signs.
What are figs?
The fig tree, or as it is also called the fig tree, grows mainly in the southern latitudes. It is grown in countries such as Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, India, Iran, as well as in some Asian countries. In southern Russia, figs grow in the Crimea and on the Black Sea coast. Figs are valued for their high content of beneficial trace elements and vitamins. It has a sweet pulp that is hard to compare with anything else.
On the shelves of Russia, you can find about 8 varieties of figs. They all differ in appearance, size and taste. Figs have many beneficial properties. It contains B vitamins, vitamins C and A, and is also rich in a large number of trace elements. Figs rank first in potassium, which is beneficial for people with cardiovascular disease. Also, regular intake of figs has a beneficial effect on digestion, which will have a positive effect on the body of the elderly. Thanks to its rich set of trace elements, it can be consumed by children and pregnant women.
How do figs end up in stores?
Ripe figs only plucked from the tree are stored for no more than 24 hours, after which they begin to turn sour. The shelf life can be increased to one week if the figs are stored at a temperature of +2 - +4 degrees in the refrigerator. It is rather difficult to transport fig fruits to settlements remote from the growing places. Figs are often harvested unripe, as a result of which the fruit loses its taste, but there are exceptions. Despite all the above nuances, it is still possible to find a delicious fig fruit in stores.
How to choose?
What are the first things to look out for when choosing a fig?
- When pressed, the fruit should be soft, and the peel should not come off, as the peel is separated from the already overripe fruit. The oxidation process could begin inside.
- You need to smell the fig fruit. If you smell sourness, then the fermentation process has begun. Figs like this are not worth buying.
- The presence of mold is also considered a bad sign, so we bypass such a fruit by the side.
- The skins of the figs should be matte and not slippery to the touch. The color of the peel can be from light yellow to dark blue, depending on the variety. In general, dark blue-skinned varieties are sweeter in taste.
- A drop of hardened resin on top of the fruit is a good sign - this is a sign of ripeness.
- It is necessary to avoid fig fruits that have already opened, as well as fruits with mechanical damage.
These basic criteria should help you choose a good fig fruit. But a truly tasty and ripe fig can be tasted only in places of its growth, in a freshly harvested form.
