🍱 Ichijiku no Kanroni (Fig Compote)

Fig has been used since antient time. In Japan, it is said that "Fig was introduced to Nagasaki via China", and was used for medicinal purposes. During the Meiji Era (1868-1912), Mr. Masui introduced “Masui Dauphine” variety, from the US, which now makes up about 80% of figs in the market. It is eaten all over the world because of its plump texture and sweetness. Fig is often processed into dried fruit in Western countries and the Middle East. As often called “the fruit of immortality”, fig is highly nutritious and contains plenty of dietary fiber, potassium (effective to get rid of excess salt), calcium (necessary to build bone) and iron (essential for preventing anemia). The fig season is from September to October in Miyagi Prefecture, with the main production areas lying in the southern part of the prefecture. The “Brunswick” variety of green fig for processed food is grown in Miyagi and some area of Fukushima, Yamagata and Akita Prefectures exclusively. Ripen figs are eaten raw or used for cooking nationally. On the other hand, in Miyagi Prefecture, where figs are mainly grown for processing, it is commonly cooked into compote, or “kanroni”. "Kanroni" made at home is simply boiled figs with sugar, water and lemon juice. People used to cook large quantities of "kanroni" and bottled it to serve to their neighbors and friends.