Spiced figs with saffron yoghurt
Serves: 4 people
Takes: 15 mins to 30 mins
Figs are a great fruit to eat fresh or dried. This dish uses fresh figs lightly scented with wonderful sweet spices.
Ingredients
8 - 12 fresh figs
3 tablespoons honey
2 cinnamon sticks
4 cloves
4 green cardamom pods
Pinch of saffron
150g thick greek yoghurt
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon mint, roughly chopped
Method
In a pestle and mortar bash the cloves and green cardamom pods to release the flavours.
In a pan gently heat the honey with the cloves, green cardamom and cinnamon for a few minutes.
In the meantime prepare the figs. Cut the figs into quarters from the top to the base without cutting all the way through. Pinch the bottoms slightly so the flesh opens up.
Pour the aromatic honey over the figs making sure there is plenty in the centre of each one. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C/350°F/gas 4 for 12 - 15 minutes or until they are softened. Discard the whole spices before serving if you prefer.
In a small bowl soak the saffron with a teaspoon of warm water and stir to release its wonderful colour and aroma.
In another bowl mix together the yoghurt, sugar, saffron including the water, and mint. Taste and add more sugar if desired.
Serve the figs with a good spoonful of saffron yoghurt. Simply delicious!
My Tip: Why not try this recipe with peaches or plums. Simply bake them for longer until they are tender.
