Spiced Pear and Fig Squares

HomeClinics & ProgramsELLICSR KitchenSpiced Pear and Fig Squares

Skill Level	Easy

Preparation Time	10 minutes	Total Time	20 minutes
Servings	20 - 24 squares (2 squares per serving)	Cost Per Serving	$0.48

If figs are hard, soak in warm water for 5 minutes.
Pulse pumpkin seeds in a food processor first, then combine remaining ingredients and blend well.
Scrap out mixture onto a large piece of parchment paper.
Using the parchment, mold the mixture into a large rectangle, pressing down so that it’s even and about ½ inch thick.
Refrigerate until firm. Cut into squares. Freeze squares and then store in a freezer bag.

PDF Image of NFT for Spiced Pear and Fig Squares

Chill: Bacteria love to grow in temperatures between 4°C and 60°C, known in the food industry as the "Danger Zone". Perishable food and leftovers need to be chilled to 4°C or lower within two hours of being at room temperature to slow down the growth of bacteria. This two hour window applies to food you plan to freeze too. Food left at room temperature for longer than 2 hours should be thrown out.
Reheat: Your refrigerated leftovers should be eaten within 3 to 4 days. Reheat any leftovers until steaming, with an internal temperature of 165 °F to ensure that any remaining bacteria is killed off and it's safe to eat.
Dried figs are naturally high in concentrated sugars as they have low water content. However, they are nutrient dense and are a good source of fibre. Dried figs can be used to substitute empty calorie sugars, which lack nutrients. As the American Institute for Cancer Research suggests, add some figs to smoothies or cereals instead of table sugar or use them when baking to lower the amount of sugar suggested in the recipe.