Estahban figs are usually dried naturally and under sunlight. This method preserves their natural flavor and properties. The product of a tree or garden includes different colors of figs. Separating dried figs based on color is one of the common methods for classifying them. The color of dried figs can indicate the type of fig, the drying method, and even its ripeness. The size of the fig was fully examined in the previous article. Here we will examine the color of the fig.
The colors of figs include white, gold, tan, chocolate, and black.
۱- White figs (hand-picked): One of the most famous and highest quality types of figs in terms of color is the uniform white fig, which is known as “hand-picked” figs and is collected in small quantities among the large amount of figs. This color indicates high quality and the correct method of drying it. This fig is considered one of the luxury figs due to its beautiful color.
۲- Golden fig: A white, yellowish fig. This fig is the most common type of fig for export to most countries in the world, especially China.
۳- Date fig: It has a light brown color and is used for direct consumption in the preparation of sweets and desserts. This type of fig is also suitable for export and is considered an economic fig because it is darker than the golden and hand-picked figs, but in terms of quality it is like the hand-picked and golden figs.
۴- Chocolate fig: This fig has a dark color, a very sweet and thick taste and is used in the production of jam, marmalade, etc.
۵- Black fig (industrial): It is almost black in color. It is used in the production of syrup, industrial supplies, etc.
The color of dried figs depends not only on the type of fig, but also on the drying method (exposed to wind, strong sun, or humid air) and the drying time. Dried figs usually have a soft and sticky texture and are very sweet due to their high sugar concentration. Despite the visible differences in appearance and characteristics, all fig varieties are almost the same in terms of taste. In fact, they only differ in the amount of sweetness.
Factors affecting the color of dried figs:
۱- Drying method: Estahban figs naturally lose their moisture slowly on the branch and then fall to the ground. Dried figs are collected under the tree and spread on an ashfang (a flat concrete platform) for further drying until they are completely dry for 3 to 4 days. Natural drying (under sunlight) usually produces a lighter color, while drying in the shade or humid air may give the fig a darker color.
۲- Drying time: Increasing the time the figs stay in the sun causes their darkening and reducing their quality. Drying the figs in the shade causes the figs to remain moist, resulting in darker and even moldy.
۳- Storage conditions: After drying, exposure to light and hot air causes the color of the dried figs to darken. As a result, to prevent the color of the figs from changing, they are transferred to a cold store.
Separating dried figs based on color not only helps buyers choose the product they want, but is also effective in determining its quality and application. These two important factors, size and color, have a very direct and vital impact on the quality and price of dried figs. If you have the opportunity to taste Estahban figs, you will definitely enjoy their unique taste and quality!