What You’ll Need
- Fresh figs
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Freezer-safe container or bag
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by washing the figs under cool, running water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Once dry, place them on a cutting board.
Step 2: Cutting
Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the stem from each fig. Then, decide whether you’d like to freeze them whole or sliced. If freezing them whole, move on to the next step. If you prefer sliced figs, gently cut them into thin pieces.
Step 3: Freezing
Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Arrange the figs in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch each other. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 3-4 hours or until the figs are completely frozen.
Step 4: Packaging
Once the figs are fully frozen, carefully remove the baking sheet from the freezer. Transfer the frozen figs into a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to label the container with the date, so you can keep track of their freshness.
Step 5: Storage
Store the freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer. Frozen figs can last up to a year, but for the best quality, aim to use them within 6-8 months. Remember to always thaw only the amount you need, keeping the rest in the freezer for later use.
Tips for Using Frozen Figs
- Thaw frozen figs in the refrigerator overnight to maintain their texture.
- Frozen figs are excellent for baking, making jams, or adding a burst of sweetness to smoothies.
- Keep in mind that frozen figs may become slightly softer after thawing, so they are best enjoyed in cooked or blended recipes.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the delightful taste of figs even when they are out of season. Freezing figs is a convenient way to preserve their flavor and nutritional value, ensuring you have a delicious ingredient at your fingertips throughout the year. Enjoy the bounty of summer with this simple preservation technique!