Few fruits feel as luxurious as a perfectly ripe fresh fig. Soft, jammy, and naturally sweet, figs are a fleeting seasonal treat that deserve a spot in your fruit bowl and your recipes.
At Misfits Market, we work with farmers to rescue four delicious fig varieties: Black Mission, California Sierra, Brown Turkey, and Tiger Stripe. Here’s how to tell them apart, when fig season peaks, and the best ways to enjoy each type.
Fig Season
Fresh figs have two main seasons: a smaller “breba” crop in early summer (May–June) and the main harvest in late summer through early fall (August–October). Exact timing depends on the variety and growing region, but in general, this is a short-lived fruit—when you see them in our store, it’s time to stock up.
Fig Varieties We Sell
Black Mission Figs
One of the most popular fig varieties, Black Mission figs have deep purple to almost black skin and soft pink flesh. They’re intensely sweet with a rich, jam-like texture, making them ideal for snacking fresh, topping yogurt, or pairing with salty cheeses like feta or blue.
California Sierra Figs
These figs have light green skin and pale amber flesh. Their flavor is milder and less intense than Black Mission figs, with a honeyed sweetness and subtle nuttiness. They’re perfect for fresh salads, baked desserts, or simply halved and drizzled with honey.
Brown Turkey Figs
Recognizable by their copper-brown skin with hints of purple, Brown Turkey figs have rosy-pink flesh and a gentle sweetness. They’re slightly less sugary than Black Mission figs but still rich and flavorful, making them versatile for both savory dishes (like flatbreads with prosciutto) and desserts.
Tiger Stripe Figs
Also called Panachée figs, Tiger Stripe figs have striking yellow-and-green striped skin and bright red flesh. They’re sweet, tangy, and a little berry-like, with a flavor that feels truly special. These are delicious eaten fresh or showcased in tarts and cheese boards where their unique color can shine.
How to Store Fresh Figs
Fresh figs are delicate and best eaten soon after purchase. Store them in the fridge and enjoy within 2–3 days for peak flavor. Bring to room temperature before serving to unlock their full sweetness.
Keep reading: How to Keep Fruit and Vegetables Fresh Longer: The Ultimate Produce Storage Guide
Dates vs. Figs: What’s the Difference?
Though they’re both sweet, nutrient-rich fruits often enjoyed dried, figs and dates are entirely different.
- Figs grow on the Ficus carica tree and have a soft, jammy interior filled with tiny edible seeds. They’re less calorie-dense and have a higher water content, making them more perishable.
- Dates come from the date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera) and are naturally much drier, chewier, and higher in natural sugars. They have a single pit in the center instead of multiple seeds. (Try them in these 5-ingredient Chocolate-Covered Dates.)
Both are delicious, but fresh figs are a seasonal treasure, while dates are available year-round.
How to Enjoy Figs
- Eat fresh as a snack or sliced onto toast with ricotta
- Roast with honey and thyme for a warm dessert
- Add to salads for a sweet contrast to greens and cheese
- Use in baked goods like galettes or upside-down cakes
When fig season hits, variety is half the fun—try them all to see which you love best.