Fig Ice Cream

my Recipe

Fig trees are magnificent, beautiful masterpieces of nature. They provide glorious shade, and some branches are perfect for sitting or climbing.

Much like the olive tree, the fig tree has been around for a very long time and has played a significant role in human civilization.

And, of course, there are the figs.

Figs are the oldest known cultivated fruit. Since the story of Adam and Eve depicts them wearing fig leaves, fig trees must have grown wild back then. But really, fig leaves are too itchy to wear - anywhere.

People either love figs, don’t care much about them, or dislike them often because of the texture. I understand. Until my late 40s, I didn’t like figs, except for fig newtons - with a cold glass of milk. Tastes change, and now I enjoy figs.

I use dried mission figs to make fig balsamic vinegar, roast fresh figs on the grill and serve with a spoonful of sweet mascarpone, and I even made fig ice cream. It turned out better than I expected, and the color was beautiful.

Fig Ice Cream

Use enough fresh figs to make five cooked cups, about 24 cups (5 to 6 liters). Trim the stems, cut figs in half, and toss them into a large pot. Add 1 to 2 cups of water—you don’t want to cover the figs entirely because they will release their own liquid. Simmer until the figs are jammy, adding water as needed.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cooked figs

• ¾ to 1 cup sugar (adjust for fig sweetness and your taste)

• 1 tablespoon vanilla

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

• ½ tablespoon ground clove

• 1 cup cream (or skim milk if preferred; figs make the mixture rich and thick—you might add yogurt or more liquid next time)

Directions

Add all ingredients except the cream to a clean pot and simmer for 15 to 30 minutes to blend flavors. Taste and adjust sugar and spices. Add cream and blend with a stick or countertop blender until smooth. Add a splash of water or more cream if needed. Chill for several hours or overnight until very cold. Process in your ice cream maker according to instructions to enjoy delicious fig ice cream.