It's a common misconception that figs only come wrapped in pastry in a yellow wrapped box. Figs are indigenous to South Africa and are an incredible source of potassium, fiber, vitamin B6. These nutrients are in charge of producing serotonin, lowering cholesterol and averting water retention. A single fig has about 43 calories, 2 grams of fiber and no fat. Cooking with figs may be foreign to some so below is a favorite Fig bar recipe that is both healthy and easy.

You will need:

32 dried figs, without stem
3/4 c. whole wheat flour
1/2 c. ground rolled oats
3/4 c. oat flour
2 tbsp. ground nuts
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/4 c. canola oil
1/3 c. maple syrup
1/4 c. non-dairy milk

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease an 8 by 8 pan.

Fig Preparation- Boil your dried figs in a sauces pan with just enough water to cover the top of the fruit. Let boil for 3 minutes, remove from heat, cover and let figs soak for 10 minutes. Now, puree your figs in a blender or food processor with about 1/4 c. of water.

Crust Preparation- In one bowl sift together the whole wheat flour, oat flour, ground nuts, ground oats, salt and baking soda. In another bowl combine the oil, milk and syrup. Now add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix just enough to join the two.

Ready, Set, Bake- Cover the bottom of the greased pan with half of the crust mixture, then top with all of the fig puree and cover that with the remaining crust. Bake 18-22 minutes or until the top crust is golden and flaky.