Can I Use Green Figs For The Figs For A Thousand And One Nights?

Our answer

Nigella’s Figs For A Thousand And One Nights (from NIGELLA SUMMER) are figs that are doused with a fragrant, spiced butter and very briefly cooked (either baked or grilled/broiled) just to warm and soften them slightly. The figs are served with the syrupy cooking juices and creamy mascarpone.

The recipe suggests black (also known as purple) figs as these are the figs most commonly found in UK supermarkets and grocery stores. However, the recipe will work with green figs as well. Try to look for thin-skinned figs and also figs as plump as possible. Slightly underripe figs will work well in the recipe as the heat brings out the sweetness and softens the flesh of the figs but if you have access to locally-sourced ripe figs then these would be perfect for the recipe.