Caramelized Figs

Caramelized figs are an elegant dessert that can gracefully conclude a dinner or enhance a cheese board. Here’s how to prepare them Italian-style with a touch of sweetness and sophistication.

Ingredients

• 6 fresh figs
• 100 g of sugar
• 50 ml of water
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 sprig of rosemary (optional for an aromatic touch)
• Vanilla ice cream or fresh cream to serve (optional)

Preparation

1. Start by cleaning the figs with a damp cloth and gently cut them in half.
2. Make the caramel by putting sugar in a wide pan with the water over medium heat. Do not stir, but you can slightly tilt the pan to help the sugar melt evenly.
3. Once the sugar starts to boil, lower the heat and wait until it takes on an amber gold color, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the lemon juice and stir quickly, being careful as the caramel may splatter.
5. Add the figs with the cut side down and let them caramelize for about 2-3 minutes.
6. If you wish, add the sprig of rosemary in the last minute to further flavor the figs.
7. Turn off the heat and let it rest briefly before serving the caramelized figs warm or lukewarm, possibly accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some fresh cream.

Did you know?

Did you know that figs are not technically considered fruit in the botanical sense? They are actually inflorescences, that is, a cluster of inverted flowers. This particularity makes them unique and even more interesting from a culinary standpoint. Additionally, they possess a natural sweetness that makes them perfect for caramelization.