The walls of the fig fruit contain latex
vessels that carry a protein-digesting enzyme,
ficin, and tannin cells that contribute
astringency. Figs are remarkable for
containing very large amounts of phenolic
compounds, some of them antioxidants, and
large amounts of calcium for a fruit. When
ripe, figs have a unique aroma that comes
mainly from spicy phenolic compounds and a
flowery terpene (linalool).
Jujube Jujubes, also known as Chinese dates,
are the fruits of Ziziphus jujuba, a tree native
to central Asia. They do bear some
resemblance to dates, as do the version known
in India as the ber (Z. mauritania). Both trees
tolerate heat and drought and are now grown
in arid regions throughout the world. Jujubes
are small, somewhat dry and spongy, more
sweet than tart. They’re an excellent source of
vitamin C, containing more than double the
amount in an equal weight of oranges. They’re