Fig Leaves have a surprisingly unique flavor that makes the most delicious Fig Leaf Syrup! This syrup can be used for cocktails, soda, tea, and more!
The inspiration for this Fig Leaf Syrup came from a visit to a local pizza parlor that is sadly no longer in business. Along with delicious pizza on the menu, there was a Fig Leaf Soda.
It sounded so interesting and unique that I knew I had to try it. Once I took the first sip I was hooked and immediately knew I wanted to make this concoction at home.
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Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Fig Leaf Syrup recipe because it captures the unique essence of fig leaves, infusing it into a delightful and versatile syrup that adds a touch of sophistication to various dishes and drinks.
The syrup's subtly sweet and earthy notes create a truly unique flavor, like my Ube Ice Cream Recipe and my Candied Lilac Flowers, that elevates my culinary creations to a whole new level.
Are Fig Leaves Edible?
Yes, fig leaves are edible and generally used for steaming, baking, or grilling. Dried fig leaves can be boiled to make tea.
They make a great wrap for steamed fish or rice and vegetables and can also be added to stews or soups as a spinach alternative. The fig leaf sap (the milky white substance in the stems when cut) can be an irritant so make sure you wash the leaves thoroughly, remove the stem, and wash your hands.
What do Fig Leaves Taste Like?
The flavor you get from fig leaves can be described as vanilla, coconut, and a slightly nutty flavor, which works great in a cocktail like my Fig Leaf Cocktail. You won't get any flavor like the fig fruit, however, the result of this fig syrup is unique and quite tasty.
Make sure you use bright green, healthy leaves. The older leaves on a tree become too fibrous and bland and will not get the same flavor results.
How to Make Fig Leaf Syrup
Place the water, sugar, and fig leaves in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and boil for 2-3 minutes.
Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool and steep for about an hour. Remove the leaves and place the syrup in a sealable bottle or container. Store in the fridge, the syrup will last up to two weeks.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can freeze fig leaves. They need to be blanched first so that they retain their shape and flavor. Layer them with wax paper or parchment paper in between each leaf and lay them flat in the freezer in a freezer-safe sealable bag or container. They will stay good in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Fig leaves have vitamins A, B1, and B2. They also contain potassium, sodium, manganese, calcium, iron, and phosphorus.
It has been said that there are health benefits from consuming fig leaves and drinking fig leaf tea, but of course, consult a professional if you want specifics.
What to Use Fig Leaf Syrup For
- You can use this syrup in cocktails like my Fig Leaf Cocktail (shown below).
- Add this syrup to iced tea as a sweetener and for a flavor boost.
- Add it to sparkling water for a delicious and sweet soda.
- Pour in your morning coffee for a special treat.
More Homemade Syrup Recipes to Check Out
If you get a chance to make this Fig Leaf Syrup, tag me on Instagram or Facebook and show me, or leave a review below! You can also follow me on Pinterest and sign up for my e-mail list to receive more fun and delicious recipes in your inbox.
Fig Leaf Syrup Recipe
Ingredients
- 3-4 fresh fig leafs
- 2 cups water
- 1½ cup sugar
Instructions
- Place the water, sugar, and fig leaves in a medium saucepan over med-high heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and boil for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool and steep for about an hour. Remove the leaves and place the syrup in a sealable bottle or container. Store in the fridge, the syrup will last for up to two weeks.
Notes
- You can freeze fig leaves. They need to be blanched first so that they retain their shape and flavor. Layer them with wax paper or parchment paper in between each leaf and lay them flat in the freezer in a freezer-safe sealable bag or container. They will stay good in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Nutrition
Any nutrition calculations are only estimates using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
Amy says
This is fabulous! The coconut smell....I had no idea!! Can't wait to try in my coffee in the morning 🙂
Emily says
Isn't it amazing??? You are going to love it, enjoy!!
Barbara says
Can the syrup be canned? if so 10or 15 min bath? would love to include this with my holiday gifts that I make from my fig tree. Making my 1st batch today. Thanks
Emily says
Hi Barbara, most syrups can be canned and it looks like 10-15 minutes is the right amount of time. I hope your gifts turn out great!