İncir Uyutması

İncir uyutması is a Turkish milk dessert in which figs and milk are combined, kept warm, and then chilled. The name means “putting the figs to sleep.” The mixture, left to rest in its container, becomes a soft dessert eaten with a spoon.

Letting fruit and milk rest

Dried figs are chopped finely, then mashed and mixed with part of the milk, which has been warmed separately. Sugar is added to taste, and once the mixture is smooth, the rest of the milk is added. The mixture is then transferred to a container, covered, and left to rest while kept warm. After that, it is chilled and served. The fruit not only adds aroma and sweetness but also plays a part in turning the liquid milk into a thick, soft set.

Covering it with a cloth and waiting quietly resembles the way yogurt is made. However, the basic method does not require adding a yogurt starter. Adding walnuts or cinnamon layers the texture and aroma of nuts onto the soft milk.

Local methods

In Turkey, it has been made in households in the fig-growing regions along the Aegean, Marmara and Mediterranean coasts, both for welcoming guests and for the family’s own table. Whether or not sugar is added also reflects the preferences of the person making it.

A collection of local dishes compiled by Çankırı city includes a method by Ümhan Eskikapısız. Small pieces of dried fig are placed in a container, hot milk with sugar added is poured over them, and the container is covered with a tray to keep it warm. After several hours, it is uncovered, chilled and served. Letting the milk and fruit rest in the container suits the name “putting to sleep” well.

There are also other versions that add yogurt cultures or salep, which is made from orchid tubers. From this simple dessert combining figs and milk, a variety of variations in ingredients and finish have emerged.

Glossary