Ibiza's folklore has many a reference to figs, none more fitting than this one for our latest entry in the series about the island's bountiful fruits: “Qui no ha menjat figa madura, no sap lo que és dolçor.” (“Whoever hasn’t eaten a ripe fig, doesn’t know what sweetness is.”)
Though they ripen throughout July and August, Ibiza’s figs are perhaps at their tastiest in September, when the heat begins to wane. Of all you may find, the late-season black fig (figues negres) variety is the most highly prized thanks to its almost wine-like depth and jammy intensity.
Figs are part of the Moraceae (aka mulberry) family. Known simply as figues in Catalan and higos in Spanish, these deep purple, green, or dusky blue fruits signal the gentle turn towards autumn on the island.
Originally cultivated across the Mediterranean for thousands of years, figs have found a perfect home in Ibiza’s dry climate and rocky limestone soils. The island’s older varieties including those cherished black figs found growing wild near abandoned fincas (farmhouses) are especially fragrant and complex.
Photo by Hjordis Fogelberg
The trees themselves are remarkable for their copious branches that give shade from the summer sun - in the past, it was a common sight to see groups of farmers' wives taking refuge beneath them, chatting and enjoying a picnic. The above example is located in Formentera and is said to be one of the largest in the whole of Spain!
Look for them at local markets like San Juan or Mercat Vell d’Eivissa, or even sold from simple wooden crates at the roadside in the countryside. Black figs often appear slightly later in the month, so keep searching if you don’t spot them right away.
Nutritionally, figs are a good source of fibre, vitamins, and minerals like potassium and calcium. Their natural sweetness also makes them a healthy alternative to refined sugars.
How to enjoy them:
Fresh: You can’t beat eating them straight off the tree - be prepared for making a sticky mess and purple stains!
Ibiza-style: Try figues amb formatjat, a classic dessert that lets the sweetness of black figs shine alongside cheese and a drizzle of rosemary honey.
Creative: Add to salads with almonds and mint, wrap in ham for a savoury bite, or slow-roast with thyme for a tasty homemade tart.
An irresistible treat: fig jam
A humble yet luxurious treat that connects the landscape to the table, figs embody the rustic, generous spirit of Ibiza’s autumn.
Ibiza Spotlight Tip:
A perfectly ripe fig will be soft to the touch and may even split its skin. Eat them the same day you buy them for the best flavour as they won’t keep for long!
Check out the other fruits we have covered earlier this year: loquats and apricots and stay tuned as there are plenty more coming up as we progress into the autumn.
Images | Pixabay
