Green Fig Pie
Welcome to the world of comforting, tropical flavors with this Green Fig Pie! In Caribbean cuisine, “green fig” refers to unripe green bananas, a staple ingredient celebrated for its versatility. This dish combines hearty green bananas with herbs, creamy cheeses, and aromatic seasonings to create a savory pie that’s satisfying, wholesome and downright irresistible. It’s the perfect side dish or a standalone meal for when you crave something both hearty and delicious.
We have a surplus of green figs in the garden so thought we would try this recipe. Much to our delight, this was utterly delicious as well as being easy to make. It makes a hearty meal and is delicious both warm and cold.
Health Benefits of Green Figs (Green Bananas)
- Rich in Resistant Starch:
- Acts as a prebiotic, promoting gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria.
- Low Glycemic Index:
- Provides slow-releasing energy, making it suitable for maintaining blood sugar levels.
- Heart-Healthy:
- High potassium content helps regulate blood pressure.
- Supports Digestion:
- Dietary fiber aids in digestion and prevents constipation.
Ingredients
Together, these ingredients transform simple, pantry staples into a Caribbean-inspired masterpiece bursting with comfort and flavor!
- Green Bananas (Green Figs)
The star of the dish, green bananas (locally known as “green fig” in the Caribbean), are starchy and mild in flavor. When boiled and finely chopped, they act as the hearty base of the pie, providing a comforting texture and a neutral taste that absorbs the flavors of the herbs and seasonings beautifully. - Garlic Powder & Fresh Garlic Cloves
Garlic brings a warm, savory depth to the pie. The powder is evenly dispersed for subtle flavor, while the fresh cloves provide bursts of aromatic richness. - Thyme
A staple herb in Caribbean cuisine, thyme adds an earthy and slightly minty flavor that elevates the overall aroma of the dish. Both fresh and dried versions work well here. - Chopped Chives
Chives contribute a mild onion-like flavor with a hint of sweetness, adding freshness and a touch of color to the pie. - Cheddar Cheese & Parmesan Cheese
The cheeses are the ultimate indulgent touch. Cheddar melts into the filling, giving it a creamy texture, while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty bite that complements the richness. - Egg
The egg acts as a binding agent, helping the pie hold its structure while contributing to its creamy texture. - Butter
Butter enhances the green bananas’ flavor, creating a pie that’s both hearty and luxurious. - Onion
Sautéed onion adds a hint of sweetness and depth, making the overall flavor profile more robust and satisfying. - Cream
The cream contributes to the dish’s velvety consistency, balancing the starchiness of the green bananas and the saltiness of the cheeses. - Salt and Black Pepper
These essentials season the dish perfectly, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adjust to your taste for the ideal balance.
How to Make Green Fig Pie
This is an easy recipe that will fast become a family favorite.
Boil the green figs in their skins.
Saute onions and garlic in butter.
Peel and finely chop green figs.
Add to pan with seasonings.
Beat egg and cream.
Add cheeses and chives.
Stir in green fig mixture.
Spoon into baking dish and top with cheese.
Bake until golden and firm.
Recipe Tips
Look for firm, unripe green bananas without yellowing. The starch content is highest at this stage, making them perfect for this dish.
If the peel is tough to remove, try cutting off both ends, making a shallow slit down the side, and boiling them briefly to loosen the skin.
Boil the bananas just until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes). Overcooking can make them watery, which might affect the pie’s texture.
For a smoother pie, mash the green bananas thoroughly. If you prefer a more rustic texture, leave some small chunks for added bite.
Prepare the banana mixture and assemble the pie a day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake fresh when ready to serve.
Storage
Let the pie cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container, or cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Reheat slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. For a crispier top, warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes.
Freezing
Wrap the entire pie (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for extra protection. Label with the date.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through.
What to Serve with Green Fig Pie
Green Fig Pie is a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re creating a balanced meal or showcasing it as a centerpiece, here are some great options to serve alongside:
Protein Pairings
- Grilled or Roasted Meats:
- Jerk chicken, roasted pork, or grilled fish bring bold flavors that complement the pie’s creamy, cheesy richness.
- Saltfish:
- A Caribbean favorite! The salty, savory fish contrasts nicely with the pie’s mild, creamy base.
- Baked Ham:
- Sweet and savory glazed ham is a classic pairing for festive occasions.
Fresh Sides
- Garden Salad:
- A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie.
- Coleslaw:
- Creamy or tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to your plate.
- Steamed Vegetables:
- Simple steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans make for a nutritious and colorful side.
Tropical Touches
- Fried Plantains:
- Sweet, caramelized plantains offer a delightful contrast to the savory pie.
- Mango Chutney or Pineapple Salsa:
- A fruity condiment adds a burst of sweetness and acidity.
More Green Fig Recipes
Enjoy green figs in these other Caribbean recipes:
Green Fig Pie
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Ingredients
- 8 green bananas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon thyme fresh or dried
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the green figs in a saucepan with water, bring to the boil and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Drain, allow to cool enough to handle. Peel and finely chop.
- In a skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 3–5 minutes.
- Add the chopped green figs, thyme and garlic powder and cook for 5 minutes, stirring.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg and add the cream.
- Stir in the Cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese and chopped chives. Mix.
- Add the green fig mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8 inch pie dish or baking dish with butter.
- Spoon the banana mixture into the dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
