Fig Spread

Name: Fig Spread
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Makes 1 3/4 cups
Ingredients: 1 package (10 ounces) dried Calimyrna figs, stemmed and cut into 1/4-inch pieces (about 1 3/4 cups); 3 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

The amber-colored Calimyrna, from California, is most common fig grown in the United States. This is the kind we've used in our recipe. Black Mission figs, which are a little less sweet, are also widely available.

Source: Everyday Food, December 2005

35 mins 15 mins Makes 1 3/4 cups

Total Time Prep Yield

Ingredients

1 package (10 ounces) dried Calimyrna figs, stemmed and cut into 1/4-inch pieces (about 1 3/4 cups)
3 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine figs with sugar and 1 1/2 cups water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until most of liquid has evaporated and figs are easily pierced with the tip of a sharp paring knife, about 20 minutes.
2. Transfer mixture to a food processor; add lemon juice. Puree until smooth (add up to 1/4 cup additional water, if needed, to thin to desired consistency). Store in refrigerator for up to 1 month.

Cook's Notes

Try this spread on crostini with goat cheese, served with cheese on a board with bread and fresh fruit, on toast instead of jelly, or in a peanut-butter sandwich.