Farida F. Alvarez

Disrobing is optional.

I prefer keeping the outer layer on to provide extra gripping purchase.

Lightly compress each bulbous curve between your thumb and your forefinger, and gently pull in opposite directions.

Examine the pink flesh balanced on each hand.

Gauge the moisture by giving each half a light squeeze. The natural sweetness, when exposed to the sun long enough will make it wet and sticky. If not, no matter. It just needs a little coaxing.

Place the halves back together, and rub. Like how you would put your dolls’ faces together and make them kiss. I didn’t have any Ken dolls growing up. Only off-brand Barbies. I have vague recollections of Sapphic Barbie play – but I was more interested in My Little Pony and brushing their rainbow coloured hair.

Rub the fig halves together in circular motions; this stimulates the nectar. The moisture returns. The viscosity of the fruit becomes audible with each delicate manoeuvre.

Pull them apart again to examine. The sheen of the flesh is restored. It is primed.

Raise one half to your mouth.

You are rewarded with the sweetness. 

This is how my father taught me to eat a Fig.