Fresh figs are fabulous when in season and the possibilities are endless from appetizers to main entrées to desserts. Featured is an easy appetizer that has great presentation! Brie is being used, but it can be made with fresh goat cheese too. A muffin pan was used to maintain the shape of the fig once wrapped with the bacon slice. The garnish is optional. Even though only 3 figs are being used, you can easily adjust the ingredient amounts to accommodate 1 or many. I am using Fig Infused Balsamic Vinegar from Spicewood Food Company and can be ordered on-line at Spicewood.
Ingredients
Figs
3 fresh figs
3 small pieces of Brie cheese, skin removed about a teaspoon
3 slices of bacon
Drizzle of Fig Balsamic Vinegar
Garnish (optional)
Champagne grapes
Mint sprigs
Technique
Figs need to be handled with a gentle touch, so that word will be used frequently. Gently rinse and drain figs. Gently slice the top off of each fig and set aside. Using a small knife gently create a very small opening in each of the figs to insert a small piece of the Brie cheese. You will not need to remove any of the inside of the figs, because the fig is very soft inside and by moving the insides around a bit with the knife you will make a little cavity that can easily be filled. Fill each fig with about 1/2 of a teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of Brie cheese depending on the size of your fig. Wrap each fig with a slice of bacon and place entire wrapped fig into a muffin tin. Once all figs are wrapped and placed into the muffin tins, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Check at that point to see if the cheese is beginning to brown, then place lid of the fig on top and continue the baking process. Bake an additional 10 minutes until bacon is crisp. Once bacon is crisp, remove and drizzle with the fig balsamic vinegar and garnish with mint and or champagne grapes.
Suggested Beverage
Try Wente Vineyards Riva Ranch Chardonnay (Livermore Valley), Zardetto Prosecco Brut Sparkling Wine (Italy) or Le Diablotin France Vin de pays d’OC Grenache (France).
Chatty Advice
Champagne grapes are great for adding flair to cheese trays or fruit platters. They also have a fantastic flavor. If you come across them in the store and you are planning on entertaining, they are a must have!
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