Figs, Black Fresh Sollies from France

A true jewel from Provence, these fresh black Solliès figs are grown around Solliès-Pont in the Var, near Toulon, where the warm Mediterranean climate encourages their rich flavour and beautiful natural sweetness. Known as Bourjassotte Noire, this renowned French variety has a deep violet-to-black skin, a firm yet tender texture and a vibrant ruby-red flesh filled with fine, delicate seeds. When perfectly ripe, the fig offers an indulgent combination of honeyed sweetness and fresh fruit aromas, with notes reminiscent of strawberry, melon and watermelon. Its flesh is dense, juicy and wonderfully fragrant, while the skin adds a subtle texture and depth. Delicious simply enjoyed at room temperature, these figs are equally at home in both sweet and savoury dishes, pairing beautifully with goat’s cheese, cured ham, walnuts, honey, rocket and balsamic vinegar. For an elegant Provençal-inspired dish, try roasting the figs with goat’s cheese and honey. Make a small cross on the top of each fig, gently open them and place them in a baking dish. Add a little fresh goat’s cheese, drizzle with honey, sprinkle with thyme and roast at 180°C for around 10 minutes, until the figs begin to soften and the cheese becomes lightly golden. Serve warm with toasted walnuts and a few rocket leaves for a delicious balance of sweetness, creaminess, freshness and crunch.