FIGS AND THEIR USES IN GASTRONOMY
The figs, sweet and juicy fruits that hang from banyan trees, have been revered for their exquisite flavor and versatility in gastronomy since ancient times. These little wonders, whether fresh or dried, have found their way into traditional and contemporary dishes, adding a touch of sweetness and complexity to a wide variety of culinary preparations.
The figs They have a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. Native to the Middle East and Mediterranean region, these fruits have been an integral part of the diet of many cultures. Today, there are numerous varieties of figs, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. Some of the most popular varieties include Black Mission, Brown Turkey, Kadota, and Calimyrna.
The figs They can be enjoyed in various ways in the kitchen. Fresh and crunchy, they are a delicious option for direct consumption. Their sweet-tart flavor and unique texture make them ideal for salads, adding a nice contrast to ingredients like goat cheese, nuts, and leafy greens.
In the pastry, the figs They add a touch of natural sweetness to a variety of dishes. They can be used in cakes, pastries, muffins and breads, creating desserts that are both visually appealing and delicious. Additionally, dried figs are a key component in many trail mixes and energy bars, providing energy and flavor in every bite.
The versatility of the figs extends to their ability to be combined with a wide range of ingredients. They complement beautifully with intensely flavored cheeses such as blue cheese, goat cheese, and ricotta cheese. They can also be part of savory dishes, such as in gourmet pizzas with prosciutto and arugula, creating an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
As for the pairings, the figs They go well with sweet and fortified wines, such as Port, Sherry and Muscat. Its natural sweetness balances the notes of these wines, creating a sensory harmony on the palate.
In addition to their flavor and culinary versatility, figs They also offer nutritional benefits. They are a good source of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and intestinal regularity. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, vitamin K, potassium and magnesium.
Figs are much more than just a sweet fruit. Their rich history, variety of flavors and culinary versatility make them a prized ingredient in cuisines around the world. Whether in savory or sweet dishes, fresh or dried, figs add a unique and delicious dimension to the culinary experience, reminding us of the wonder of natural ingredients in their tastiest form.
Below we leave you a recipe to lick your fingers:
Yoingredients:
- Figs
- Walnuts
- Goat cheese
- Holm Oak Honey
- Port wine
We wash them well figs because we are going to eat them with the skin. Don't worry because when it is baked, its skin will be fine and soft, not rough as it originally is.
Peel the walnuts and cut the heart into 4 parts.
We cut the goat cheese, I use an apple corer so that they are cylindrical enough to put them in the fig. If you have one you can do it, if not with the knife.
Now, with the help of a small, sharp knife, make a cylindrical hole in the figs that goes from the stem to the bottom but without reaching the skin.
Once the hole is made, we use the knife to push the flesh of the fig to the sides and leave the hole well made.
Once this is done, we put a quarter of a walnut in the bottom and on top of it the goat cheese, covering the hole.
We repeat in all figs what we are going to do.
We preheat the oven to 180º
On a baking tray we place the figs and we pour a generous splash of port wine and oak honey over the figs and the tray so that they caramelize with the heat.
We put it in the oven for 15 minutes with air function.
After this time we stop the oven and put the grill option on for a few minutes so that they gratin a little. We only do this for a couple of minutes or three.
Finally, to plate we place the figs, crush walnuts in a mortar and sprinkle them on top, add the juice that has remained on the tray with a spoon and another splash of honey.
It is a real treat because of how delicious they are.
Enjoy!
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