Know this
A ripe fig is heavy, soft, and a little split at the base. Firm figs never ripen off the tree, so buy them ready and eat them within a day or two.
Cook
Eat raw, or halve and roast until they caramelize and jam up.
Season
Late summer into early fall, their short true season.
Best pairings
prosciutto · goat cheese · honey · balsamic · walnuts · arugula
Also worth trying: blue cheese, ricotta, mascarpone, brie, thyme, black pepper, toasted almonds, mint, orange zest, dark chocolate.
Recommended wine
A sweet or light sipper. Port, Moscato, or a chilled Pinot Noir. Around $15 to $35.
See the full pairing guide