Eat Me!

- Fig leaf

When we think of fig trees, we picture their sweet, juicy fruit. But did you know the leaves of the *edible fig tree are also edible and can add a unique flavor to your dishes? Fig leaves are aromatic, with hints of coconut, vanilla, and nutmeg, and they are EVERYWHERE in Portland! *ornamental fig bushes and vines (creeping fig) without edible fruit do not have edible leaves. ; ).

Check out these easy recipes to get you started, and note along that way that fig trees produce a milky white latex from their young leaves when broken that can be irritating to the skin and eyes, using gloves and safety glasses if tearing leaves is recommended.

Why Try Fig Leaves in Your Cooking?

Fig leaves bring a special flavor that can elevate your meals. They're packed with vitamins A, B1, and B2, and you can use them fresh or dried. Plus, cooking with fig leaves is a fun way to experiment with new tastes!

Easy and Delicious Fig Leaf Recipes

1. Fig Leaf Tea

   What You Need:

   • 3-4 fresh fig leaves

   • 4 cups of water

   • Honey or lemon (optional)

   How to Make It:

   1. Rinse the fig leaves well.

   2. Boil the water in a large pot.

   3. Add the fig leaves to the boiling water and let them simmer.

   4. After about 10 minutes, remove the leaves and strain the tea into cups.

   5. Add honey or lemon if you like.

   Fig leaf tea is not just tasty; it might also help manage blood sugar levels.

2. Fig Leaf-Wrapped Grilled Fish

   What You Need:

   • 4 fresh fig leaves

   • 2 fish fillets (like tilapia or snapper)

   • 2 tablespoons olive oil

   • Salt and pepper

   • Lemon slices (optional)

   How to Make It:

   1. Clean and dry the fig leaves.

   2. Season the fish with salt, pepper, and olive oil.

   3. Wrap each fillet in a fig leaf and secure with twine or toothpicks.

   4. Preheat your grill to medium-high.

   5. Grill the wrapped fish for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.

   6. Serve with lemon slices for a fresh twist.

   The fig leaves give the fish a subtle, coconut-like flavor that's absolutely delicious.

3. Fig Leaf Rice Pudding

   What You Need:

   • 1 cup rice

   • 4 cups milk (or a milk alternative)

   • 3 fresh fig leaves

   • 1/2 cup sugar

   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

   • A pinch of salt

   How to Make It:

   1. Rinse the rice under cold water.

   2. In a large pot, bring the milk and fig leaves to a simmer.

   3. Add the rice, sugar, and salt.

   4. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens (about 25-30 minutes).

   5. Remove the fig leaves and stir in the vanilla.

   6. Serve warm or chilled, with a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like.

   This rice pudding is creamy with a fragrant twist thanks to the fig leaves.

Handy Tips for Cooking with Fig Leaves

• Fresh vs. Dried: Fresh fig leaves have a stronger flavor, while dried ones are milder. Adjust the amount you use accordingly.

• Storage: Keep fresh leaves in the fridge for up to a week. Dried leaves last several months in an airtight container.

• Safety First: Fig trees produce a milky white latex from their young leaves when broken that can be irritating to the skin and eyes, using gloves and safety glasses if tearing leaves is recommended if you don’t know if you have a reaction to this substance.

Trying out fig leaves in your cooking can add a whole new dimension to your dishes. Whether you're brewing a calming tea, grilling fish, or making a delightful dessert, fig leaves are a versatile and tasty addition. So next time you have access to fig leaves, don’t toss them—get creative and enjoy their unique flavor!