Go figure

It's the first day of Autumn in the UK and already we've been enjoying the fruits of the season. Juicy blackberries plopped amongst crisp slices of apple and baked in pies and crumbles. Succulent plums de-stoned and used in jams, chutneys and tarts. One of my favourites, and a versatile gem, is the fig. 

Coming from Turkey at this time of year, the matt dark purple skin gives way to raspberry pink seeded flesh. It's sweet jamminess, although delicious on its own, pairs well with sweet or savoury. It makes best friends with salty cheeses, bitter walnuts and sweet honey. It can be eaten straight from the skin or gently cooked.

My favourite way of eating them is to toast nuts (pistachio/almonds) in a pan. Remove and clean the pan. Squeeze honey into the pan and gently cook the figs cut side down for a few minutes until caramelised. Plate up, sprinkling the toasted nuts over the top and serve with ice cream or Greek yogurt topped with another drizzle of honey.

Whilst Adam tempted Eve with an apple, they must have had an abundance of figs judging by the clothes they wore!