Warming Fig Spread

1 lb fresh or dried figs
5 Chinese Dates (or regular if you can’t find them)
2 TBS freshly grated ginger
Pinch Black Pepper
Pinch of Salt
1/4 Cup Red Wine or Red Wine Vinegar

Bring red wine to a simmer in a sauce pan. Add fresh ginger. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes while chopping figs and dates into quarters. (You may need to pit your dates). Add to pot. Simmer on low, half covered for 20-30 minutes until it reaches a jam like consistency. Add pinch (or more) of black pepper and a pinch of salt. Use a wand blender or place in a food processor to mix gently until reaches desired consistency.

This spread is wonderful for supporting the spleen in Chinese medicine. Your spleen is responsible for assimilating nutrients you take in and sending them out to the organs and systems that need them for your body to thrive! “Spleen Qi Deficiency” which is a common ailment in Chinese medicine can lead to symptoms like; diarrhea, fatigue, anxiety, edema and low appetite. Figs are also a wonderful source of soluble fiber.