What is dried figs, sukhe anjeer, dry anjeer?

Thought to be the sweetest fruit, figs are also one of the oldest fruits recognized by man. Its no wonder the fig has been enjoyed for centuries. Figs grow on the Ficus tree, which is a member of the Mulberry family. They are unique in that they have an opening, called the "ostiole" or "eye," which is not connected to the tree. Figs range dramatically in color and subtly in texture depending upon the variety. A fig occupies a high position among fruits. The majority of figs are dried, either by exposure to sunlight or through an artificial process, creating a sweet and nutritious dried fruit that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

How to select dried figs, sukhe anjeer, dry anjeer

Dried figs are readily available in the market. Select figs that are clean and dry, with smooth, unbroken skin.

Culinary Uses of dried figs, sukhe anjeer, dry anjeer in Indian Cooking

Dried Figs, Anjeer used in Indian Desserts as they are naturally sweet. Anjeer Halwa is a really striking dessert made of puréed figs, powdered almonds and milk powdered, cooked with ghee and a little bit of sugar to add to the natural sweetness of figs. The almonds and figs complement each other beautifully in flavour and texture, while the milk powder and ghee give a very luxuriant mouth-feel and flavour to this halwa.

anjeer basundi recipe | easy anjeer basundi | with 14 amazing images. Rich enough to pamper your senses, tinged with the magic of Indian spices, the anjeer basundi is a dessert you will enjoy thoroughly.

dried figs, dry anjeer used in Indian drinks

dry fruits milkshake recipe | Indian dry fruit milkshake with dry anjeer | dry fruits nuts milkshake | with 17 amazing images.

dry fruit smoothie is a wonderful way to enjoy dry fruits, this milkshake is packed with vigour and punch. Learn how to make dry fruits milkshake.

In dry fruits milkshake a grand assortment of nuts and dried figs is blanched in hot water and then blended, in order to get a smooth and luscious consistency.

· Dried figs can simply be eaten, used in a recipe as is, or simmered for several minutes in water or fruit juice to make them plumper and juicier. This can be topped on ice cream, yoghurt or desserts.

· Dried figs can be used interchangeably with prunes, dried apricots, and dates in most recipes.

· When preparing oatmeal or any other whole grain breakfast porridge, add some dried figs.

· Figs are used as a sweetener. Hence often used for cakes, pudding, custards or jams.

How to store dried figs, sukhe anjeer, dry anjeer

Dried figs can be stored in the original sealed package at room temperature for a month. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, six months to a year. Opened dried figs should be transferred to a sealable plastic bag and stored in the refrigerator.

Health benefits of dried figs, sukhe anjeer, dry anjeer

4.9 g of fiber is what ½ cup of dried figs offer and keep constipation at bay. 2 to 3 dried figs are a good source of fibre and dried figs soaked overnight and consumed next morning are often used as a laxative to cleanse the gut. Being a good source of potassium, dried figs can help balance the sodium and potassium ratio, thus controlling blood pressure and good for heart. Yes, figs contain a good amount of fiber which is sure to benefit you by keeping you full for longs hours. But dried figs are high in natural sugar and carbs and thus a good source of energy and thus should be eaten in moderation, especially by those aiming weight loss. The antioxidant phenol and fibre in dried figs both work together to eliminate free radicals which would otherwise damage blood vessels and trigger heart diseases. The calcium in it is needed to bone strengthening process. Due to its high carb count, diabetics should avoid them or have one occasionally and balance it with other low carb foods in that meal. See detailed benefits of anjeer, dried figs.

Nutritive Information for Dried Figs (Anjeer):

½ cup of chopped dried figs is about 50 grams

RDA stands for Recommended Daily Allowance.

Energy - 125 calories

Protein – 1.6 g

Carbohydrate – 31.9 g

Fat – 0.5 g

Fiber – 4.9 g

Minerals:

81 mg of Calcium = 8.1% of RDA (about 1000 mg)

1 mg of Iron = 5% of RDA (about 20 mg)

34 mg of Magnesium = 9.71% of RDA (about 350 mg)

34 mg of Phosphorus = 5.6% of RDA (about 600 mg)

340 mg of Potassium = 7.2% of RDA (about 4700 mg)

chopped dried figs

Chop the dried figs with the help of a knife or scissors, while doing so dip cutting tool into warm water occasionally to prevent sticking. Place one dried fig on a chopping board and make vertical slits on it using a sharp knife to get long strips. Line all the strips together and make horizontal slits to get chopped dried figs. You can finely chop or roughly chop as per the recipe requirement.

soaked dried figs

Soak the dried figs in warm water for 15 mins. Drain them as they become soft. Dry the same in shelter. Further, enjoy on its own or can be used to make sauces, dessert, puree etc.

dried figs puree

To make dried figs puree, it is essential to soak it in warm water for a soft and smooth paste. Soak it in warm water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain them and as they become soft, add it to grinder and puree it. Add water for the required consistency and use as preferred.