Fig Bread for Tu B’Shevat

In Israel, Tu B’Shevat is heralded by the white blossoms bursting from the bare branches of the almond trees, filling the air with the sweet perfume of spring. Tu B’Shevat, the New Year of the Trees, is celebrated with fruits and nuts that have been gathered and saved from the summer harvest. Since the times of ancient Israel, fruits were preserved in varied ways. Fruit syrups or “honeys” were cooked from dates, figs, grapes, carobs, and pomegranates. Jams were made from sour cherries, bitter oranges, baby eggplants, and carrots. They were flavored with cardamom, rosewater, and saffron. Dried dates and figs were pressed into leathers and cakes for later consumption. In the early spring, fruits that had been stored in this way would be presented at the festive Tu B’Shevat meal.