Imagine a dessert so luxurious and aromatic that it whispers tales of ancient Persian gardens and royal feasts. Our Baked Figs with Almonds and Rosewater is not just a recipe—it's a sensory journey that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. With its delicate balance of sweet honey, fragrant rosewater, and crunchy almonds, this Middle Eastern delicacy promises to elevate your dessert game from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 fresh figs
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rosewater
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the figs bake evenly and develop a lovely caramelized flavor.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the figs. Rinse the fresh figs under cold water and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Cut a small 'X' on the top of each fig to allow the honey and rosewater mixture to seep inside during baking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the honey and rosewater until well combined. This fragrant mixture will enhance the natural sweetness of the figs.
- Next, place the figs in a baking dish, cut side up. Drizzle the honey and rosewater mixture over the figs, ensuring each fig is generously coated.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the figs. The almonds will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.
- Dot the figs with small pieces of butter. This will help to create a rich, buttery sauce as the figs bake.
- Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the figs are soft and caramelized. You should see the honey bubbling around the figs.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The figs will be hot, so handle them with care.
- To serve, transfer the baked figs to individual plates or a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining honey and butter sauce from the baking dish over the figs for added flavor.
- Enjoy your baked figs warm, either on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt for a delightful dessert.
Tips
- Choose ripe, fresh figs for the best flavor and texture. Look for figs that are soft but not mushy, with a deep, rich color.
- Use high-quality rosewater for an authentic and intense floral aroma. Avoid artificial rose essences.
- For extra richness, consider using unsalted European-style butter with a higher fat content.
- If the figs are not naturally sweet, you can drizzle a little extra honey before baking.
- Watch the figs carefully during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning, as honey can caramelize quickly.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature contrast.
- For a more decadent presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cardamom or a few rose petals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 138kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 8mg
