What is the Dried Fig?

When you bite into a dried fig, you're not just enjoying a naturally sweet and chewy snack—you're tasting centuries of tradition, rich soil, and Mediterranean sunshine. But what exactly is a dried fig, and where does it come from?

The Origin of the Dried Fig

Figs are one of the oldest cultivated fruits in the world, with origins tracing back thousands of years to the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. Among the most prized varieties in the world is the Turkish dried fig, and more specifically, those grown in Aydın, a fertile province in the Aegean region of Turkey.

Aydın: The Heartland of Turkish Figs

Nestled between mountains and warmed by the Aegean sun, Aydın offers the perfect microclimate for growing figs. The region’s Sarılop fig variety is world-renowned for its thin skin, high sugar content, and ideal structure for drying. Local farmers, often with generations of experience, continue the tradition of cultivating these fruits using time-honored methods.

How Are Figs Dried?

The fig harvesting season begins in late July or early August, when the fruit naturally begins to ripen and fall from the trees. Once picked, figs are carefully sun-dried on raised drying beds made from natural materials like bamboo or netting. This sun-drying process typically takes 4 to 7 days, during which the figs lose moisture but retain their natural sugars and rich flavor.

Unlike artificial drying methods, this traditional sun-drying process preserves the fig’s nutrients, sweetness, and chewy texture, making them a healthy and flavorful snack.

Processing & Packaging

Once dried, figs are sorted by hand based on size and quality. Any stems are removed, and the figs are gently pressed and shaped into traditional forms such as garlands, layers, or pulled packs. At this stage, they may be briefly treated with natural sulfur or steam to preserve color and extend shelf life—depending on the desired end product and customer preferences.

The final step is hygienic packaging, ensuring the figs are ready to travel across the world while maintaining their taste and texture.

Why Choose Turkish Dried Figs?

• No added sugar or preservatives

• Rich in fiber, calcium, and antioxidants

• Naturally sweet and satisfying

• Sustainably farmed and sun-dried

• Perfect for snacks, baking, or cheese boards

From Aydın to Your Table

At 333 Chicago, we are proud to bring you authentic Turkish dried figs directly from family-owned orchards in Aydın. Every fig is a piece of sunshine, a taste of tradition, and a celebration of nature.

So next time you open a pack of dried figs, remember—you’re not just eating a snack. You're enjoying a legacy.