Figs with Balsamic Syrup and Goat Cheese

Adapted from Epicurious Perfect Parties by Linnea Johansson

Husband-Tested in Alice’s Kitchen

What a treat this is!  When I served this to my hubby, he didn’t say a word.  He just grinned at me and made his eyebrows go up and down, up and down.  Of course this would make a perfect appetizer for a party, but I also think it’d make a very simple, but elegant dessert.  Lost River Market & Deli has everything you need to make it!

¾ lb. goat cheese

4 fresh figs

¼ cup of balsamic vinegar

3 Tablespoons brown sugar

1. Slice the goat cheese log, and place on an oven pan. Cut the figs into rounds. (I just cut them in half lengthwise, but I discovered that they would be easier to eat if they were sliced.)

2. Pour the balsamic vinegar and sugar into a small saucepan, and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the mixture is reduced and sticks to the back of a spoon. (It should have the consistency of pancake syrup.)

3. Heat the goat cheese slices quickly by using your oven's broiler function for about 3 minutes, or until the cheese has slightly started to melt.

4. Place the cheese on a serving plate, and top it with the figs and vinegar mixture. Serve warm.

Notes: You can replace the brown sugar with honey or regular sugar. Always taste the mixture since the different sugars have different sweetness, and you might have to add more.

If you are using dried figs, place them in the vinegar mixture and let them absorb some of the liquid while the mixture cools.