Green fig pie recipe: A delicious twist on traditional pie
If you’re looking for a unique and delicious twist on traditional pie, look no further than Green Fig Pie. This delightful recipe uses green figs, often called “green bananas” in some Caribbean cultures, to create a savory pie perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re familiar with green figs or trying them for the first time, this pie will surely become a favorite dish.
If you ever get some green figs and wonder what to do with it, then I have the perfect options for you.
Boiled green figs are the regular way of eating these “hard foods”, but I want to present to you different ways we can use them. This time in the delicious form of a casserole.
If you have already made some green fig salad, green fig souse, or green fig with saltfish pie, then this delightful green fig pie is your next option.
Why you would like this green fig pie
If you are someone who craves unique and exotic flavors, then this green fig pie is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Combining the distinct Caribbean flavors with the unexpected combination of mashed green figs with cheese and spices, this recipe offers a truly extraordinary culinary experience.
Key ingredients and seasonings in this recipe include cheddar cheese and a creamy roux base. The addition of cheddar cheese adds a creamy and tangy element, balancing the flavors of the pie. Finally, garlic lends a subtle depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
In Caribbean cuisine, pies hold a significant cultural significance. They are a beloved and versatile dish, with various fillings and flavors representing different Caribbean cultures. This green banana casserole adds to the diversity of pie options, offering a unique twist on a classic recipe.
Health benefits of green fig pie
Green Fig Pie is not only delicious but also nutritious. Green figs are a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium and aids in digestion and boosting the immune system. The cheese and milk add protein and calcium to the dish, making it a well-rounded meal.
How to make green fig pie
Ingredients needed
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating the perfect Green Fig Pie. Here are some of the important fresh ingredients that you will need. things you’ll need:
Fresh Ingredients
- Green figs (green bananas) – Obviously at the green stage. Avoid any that are starting to look ripened.
- Grated cheese – sharp cheddar is my go-to for these types of dishes, like in my potato pie. But you can also use a mixed set of cheese that you like.
- Milk – I use evaporated milk. You are free to substitute for the best milk for your taste/need like whole milk or even nondairy kinds of milk.
- Pimento peppers – This popular Trini seasoning pepper can be optional, but adds a great layer of flavor to the dish. It can be found in Caribbean supermarkets.
Additions: You can also incorporate sweet peppers, sweet corn, green peas, or other vegetables of your liking to make this delicious dish your own. Check the recipe card below for the full ingredients list and the amounts needed to make this Caribbean dish.
Instructions
Creating green fig pie is straightforward with these easy-to-follow steps:
- Start with boiling the bananas: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the unpeeled bananas (remove the ends) into the boiling water and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the skin turns black and they are fork tender.
- While the bananas are boiling, prepare the sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook the mixture for a few minutes until it becomes golden and fragrant. Add the milk and the broth to the sauce and mix well.
- Add the spices and cheese: To enhance the flavor of the sauce, incorporate spices such as pimento peppers, and garlic. Stir in a generous amount of your favorite cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy texture. Remove the sauce from the stove
- Once the bananas are cooked: remove the boil green fig from the water and let them cool slightly. Peel off the blackened skin, chop them up into discs, and place the cooked bananas in a mixing bowl.
- Mash the bananas: Use a fork or potato masher to mash the bananas until smooth and creamy. Add the mashed bananas to the cheese sauce mixture, stirring well to combine the flavors. Taste for salt and black pepper and adjust as needed.
- Preheat the oven to the recommended temperature. Pour the cheesy banana mixture into the greased Pyrex dish, spreading it evenly.
- Choose your topping: Sprinkle the pie with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish or generously layer a sprinkle of cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake the pie: Place the greased baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for around 35-40 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool before slicing and serving. This Caribbean pie is now ready to be enjoyed, with its unique and delightful flavors!
Serving and storage
How to serve green fig pie:
Green fig pie is best served warm as the perfect side dish. You can enjoy it paired with:
- Stewed meat: Chicken, turkey, or oxtail
- Sides: Stewed lentils or pigeon peas
- Salad: Combine all of that with a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage tips for leftovers:
Store green fig pie in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors. It will stay fresh in the fridge for 4-5 days, but for the best taste, consume within 2-3 days. To store for longer, freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven to maintain its texture and flavor.
More oven baked casseroles
Frequently Asked Questions
While ripe plantains can be used, they will give the pie a sweeter flavor like in the ripe plantain pie. For the traditional savory taste, stick with green plantains.
Green Fig Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Yes, you can freeze Green Fig Pie. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Green Fig Pie is a delightful and unique dish that brings the flavors of green plantains into a comforting and satisfying pie. With its blend of savory and slightly sweet tastes, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a new twist on traditional pie!
Feel free to share your experiences and any variations you try with this recipe. Happy baking!
Recipe
Green fig pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add some salt and oil to the water.
- Wash the green figs. Cur the ends and score a line from end to end in the skin.
- Once the water is boiling, add the figs to the water and boil them till tender.
- Heat a deep saucepan on medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt and start to brown. Then slowly add in the flour while whisking quickly.
- Add in a little of the milk and keep whisking, trying to dilute the flour mixture.
- Add more milk, whisk, and keep adding till all the milk is added.
- Add your cheese in, and mix well using a spatula. Mix until the cheese is melted into the milk mixture.
- Add minced garlic and pimento peppers, salt, and black pepper.
- Continue to simmer on medium-low until the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick.
- Remove from heat.
- Check the figs now for tenderness. Drain them from the water. When cool enough peel and cube up and place in a large bowl.
- Crush up figs with a potato masher or a fork.
- Add the cheese mixture and combine well. Taste for salt and pepper.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 – 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown. You can also broil it for the last 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 10 – 15 minutes before cutting.
