the sweetness of home

Figs only ripen in the hottest of temperatures during the summertime and into the fall. Once they ripen, their lifespan on the branch is very short, so you have to act fast. Owning figs taught me that if you want something, you have to be consistent and act fast.

My parents bought a plot of land that unknowingly had fig trees growing on it and therefore, my family’s love for figs had started. Every summertime we were blessed with an abundant of figs so we’d give them away and make our pantry staples which were fig jam and dried figs. There were so many delicious recipes we’d try like baked mascarpone figs and fig ice cream.

Even though it’s just a fruit, figs are not so common in Virginia because of the climate. So it was always something that felt so personal and unique to my family. I once was walking on campus and was able to spot a wild fig tree. I was so excited that I had to text my parents right away. Little things like that connect me right back to my family even when we’re physically apart.

Sugar glazed figs

Italian Honey Fig from the fig tree on campus

Baked mascarpone figs