Harvesting FIG LEAVES for Tea, Ice Cream, Syrup & Pesto

In this video, fig enthusiasts are introduced to the various uses of fig leaves, along with essential safety precautions. It starts with a critical warning about the sap from fig tree branches and leaves, which can be toxic and burn the skin upon contact. Harvesting fig leaves opens up numerous culinary possibilities, such as making pesto, wrapping fish or meats for cooking, and even using the leaves to impart a coconut-like flavor to foods. Fig leaves can also be dried for tea or infused into syrups, and some sources claim fig leaf ice cream to be among the best-tasting desserts.

The proper technique for harvesting fig leaves is demonstrated, with a focus on cutting the leaf while leaving minimal stem to avoid unnecessary sap exposure. To prevent skin irritation, viewers are advised to wear gloves and long sleeves and to wash exposed skin thoroughly after handling. Ideal leaves are selected from fast-growing, vigorous branches, such as suckers, particularly from trees that are at least three to four years old. With practical tips and unique ideas, the video inspires viewers to explore the often overlooked versatility of fig leaves in the kitchen.

Ice cream: https://cocoetsel.com/toasted-fig-lea...
Fig leaf syrup: https://niksharmacooks.com/fig-leaf-s...

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Sap warning (0:00):
Caution about the toxic and caustic sap from fig branches and leaves, which can burn skin.
Harvesting fig leaves (0:38):
Describes harvesting fig leaves and experimenting with different uses for the fig surplus.
Exploring fig leaf uses (1:09):
Plans to use fig leaves in cooking, including pesto, and experimenting with new ideas.
Pesto and wrapping meats (1:37):
Mentions making pesto, wrapping meats or fish with fig leaves, and their coconut-like flavor.
Fig leaf syrup and ice cream (2:15):
Describes making fig leaf syrup and ice cream, citing its high praise from multiple sources.
Leaf harvesting method (2:47):
Demonstrates how to properly harvest fig leaves, avoiding the stem and minimizing sap exposure.
Safety precautions (4:00):
Advises wearing long sleeves, gloves, and washing with dish soap after handling fig leaves to prevent burns.
Tree selection for harvesting (5:10):
Recommends harvesting from fast-growing, vigorous trees, especially suckers, while avoiding young trees.
Leaf characteristics (6:25):
Notes that leaves from suckers are larger, darker, and more nutrient-rich.