When it comes to dried figs, there’s a lot of debate over whether or not they should be soaked before eating. Some people say that it unlocks the nutritional benefits, while others maintain that it simply makes them taste better.
So, what’s the verdict? Should you soak your figs before popping them into your mouth? Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Dried Figs and What Is the Benefit of Eating Them?
Dried figs are made from fresh figs that have been dried out and typically have a chewy texture. They’re often used in baking, as they add sweetness and moisture to recipes.
As for the benefits of eating them, dried figs are a good source of fiber, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins B1 and B2. They’re also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your body against free radicals.
So, if you’re looking for a healthy snack that will keep you feeling satisfied for longer, dried figs are a great choice. And, since they’re low in calories and sugar, they’re a good option for people who want to lose weight or trying manage their blood sugar levels.
Why Should You Soak Your Dried Figs Before Eating Them?
So, we know that dried figs offer a range of health benefits, but is there a reason to soak them before eating?
Yes, soaking your figs can actually help you unlock some of those benefits. When you soak them, the figs absorb water, and their texture softens. That makes them easier to digest and also makes them taste sweeter.
The only downside is that it does make them go soggy, but if you eat your soaked figs right away, this shouldn’t be a problem. Alternatively, you can wait until they’ve absorbed all of the water and then use them in baking or cooking recipes that call for dried fruit. What’s more, if you don’t want to soak them yourself, some dried figs come pre-soaked and ready to eat.
Is There a Difference Between Soaking Your Dried Figs for 1 Hour or Overnight?
So, now you know why some people soak their dried figs before eating them. But what about the difference between soaking them for one hour versus overnight?
Leaving your figs to soak overnight means that they’ll have all of the benefits mentioned above. When I am looking for a fast way to soften my dried figs I might just soak them for an hour, but I won’t get the same level of hydration and sweetness as if I’d soaked them overnight.
So, if you’re looking to get the most out of your dried figs, it’s best to let them soak overnight. This will help improve their taste and texture, and it’ll also allow you to enjoy all of the health benefits they have to offer.
Health Benefits of Soaking Dried Figs Overnight
Some people have problems with constipation when eating dried figs. Sadly, most of them never even heard about soaking dried figs before eating them.
Having constipation implies that your bowel motions are either difficult or infrequent. It happens to everyone at some time.
Dried figs often cause constipation because they are high in fiber which is slowly digested. They can also absorb lots of water, which can leave your bowel quite dry. When you combine the two, you can end up with extremely slow bowel movement and constipation that lasts for days.
Pre-soaking dried figs mean they won’t need to absorb water from your intestine, making digestion way easier. In addition, fiber is easier to digest when soaked, which removes both problems.
Some claim soaked dried figs help with weight loss. It’s possible because the volume of water absorbed with them will make you feel full for a longer time.
Other than that, there is no science to support that soaked dried figs are any better than non-soaked dried figs for weight loss.
How to soak your dried figs?
- Get your dried figs
- Put them in a bowl
- Add water to the bowl
- Let them soak overnight
- Rinse them under cold water and enjoy!
To get the most out of your soaked figs, eat them straight away or use them in recipes that call for dried fruit.
Other Ways of Eating Dried Figs
Bacon-wrapped figs
When it comes to Bacon, I’m sure many people reading this will be happy to hear that it may also be served with figs in this meal.
A slice of grilled Bacon can be wrapped around fig and cooked at the same time.
Figs Salad
You may add figs to your salad for the vegetarians in your family who enjoy it to make it tastier and more nutritious.
Baked Figs
Baked figs are also a great option for enhancing their flavor. When making muffins, biscuits, or cakes, use figs as an ingredient.
Cereal And Milk
Add figs to your cereal for an extra dose of nutrition in the morning. It’s another good way to reduce the chances of constipation because figs will be partially soaked in milk.