Fabulous Figs

The fig is definitely an underestimated Autumn treat.   Figs contain a wealth of beneficial nutrients, including vitamin A,  Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2,  Calcium, Iron, Phosphorus,  Manganese, Sodium,  Potassium and chlorine.  
The fibre content in figs has been known to protect against breast cancer. After menopause the hormonal balance in women can often fluctuate. The body’s systems are so interconnected that these hormones affect the immune system, which in turn affect the ability of antioxidants to fight free radicals. Free radicals are prime factors behind the development of cancer, so figs take care of one extra line of defence by providing fibre to the body.  This seems appropriate as it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
 
Here’s a recipe…I haven’t tried it yet, but it sounds delicious:

 Sticky Cinnamon Figs
8 ripe figs
large knob of butter
4 tbsp clear honey
handful shelled pistachio nuts or almonds
1 tsp ground cinnamon 
 or mixed spice
mascarpone or Greek yogurt, to serve
 
1.       Heat grill to medium high. Cut a deep cross in the top of each fig then ease the top apart like a flower. Sit the figs in a baking dish and drop a small piece of the butter into the centre of each fruit. Drizzle the honey over the figs, then sprinkle with the nuts and spice.
2.       Grill for 5 mins until figs are softened and the honey and butter make a sticky sauce in the bottom of the dish. Serve warm, with dollops of mascarpone or yogurt.

 By the way, the mystery object in yesterday's blip was light shining through a leaf of savoy cabbage.