How To Dry Figs

Plate Of Fresh Figs

If you’re lucky enough to have a fig tree or if you’ve come across a good deal on fresh figs at the local market, here’s an easy way to preserve them by drying. Dried figs are a very healthy snack and they can be added to baked goods (such as cookies, muffins and cakes), in yogurt or cereals or eaten just by themselves.

How To Dry Figs

• Preheat oven at the lowest temperature (140°F to 150°F).
• Choose fully ripe figs to dry. Wash them to remove all dirt. Pat dry with a clean cotton cloth or paper towel. Remove stems.
• Cut figs in half (or quarters for large figs).
• Lay them skin side down on a rack or tray that will allow air to circulate around each fig. Place tray in the oven and let them dry slowly in the heat (keep the oven door propped open slightly to prevent the figs from cooking instead of drying–a temperature of approximately 120°F is optimal. An open door also helps moisture escape). Turn figs occasionally while drying. It can take up to 36 hours to fully dry the figs with this oven method.

Important: After drying, freeze the dried figs for at least 4 or 5 days to kill off any contaminants.

If you’d like to try drying the figs outside in the sun, prepare the figs as noted above then arrange them on screens or racks that will allow the air to circulate around them. Lay the trays out in the sun and cover the racks with cheesecloth to protect the figs from insects. Bring the trays in each night to avoid moisture. It will take approximately three days to fully dry the figs with this method.

Tips:

• 3 pounds of fresh figs make approximately 1 pound dried figs.
• Storage: Keep in airtight containers or sealed plastic bags, refrigerate or freeze.
• Optional: Try brushing the dried figs with a light coat of mild tasting honey before storing.
• Figs can also be dried in a dehydrator, simply follow the directions that the manufacturer provided.
• You’ll know the figs are fully dried when they are leathery looking with no pockets of moisture yet still soft inside–squeeze them and if no syrup oozes out they’re dry.

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