Dried Figs

Dried figs are whole figs that have been dried until they become chewy and sweet, with the small crunchy seeds figs are known for. They are a familiar pantry item in many Lebanese homes, eaten on their own as a snack or served alongside nuts, cheese or a cup of tea. Many people chop them into oatmeal, yogurt or breakfast bowls, and cooks also use them in baking, jams, stuffings and stews where a touch of sweetness is wanted. At Dekenet Al Nes, a package-free grocery store in Baaqline, in the Chouf, dried figs are sold by the kilo. Customers are encouraged to bring their own containers or bags and take the amount they need, which helps cut plastic waste and single-use packaging. At home, they keep well in a closed jar in a cool, dry place.