Cheese And Figs: A Match Made In Heaven

Figs and cheese is a classic combination that creates a symphony of flavours on your taste buds. The sweetness of the figs is beautifully complemented by the salty, creamy taste of cheese, resulting in a delightful balance of sweet and savoury. When it comes to dried figs, the options for cheese pairings are endless. Dried figs offer a more concentrated sweetness and chewy texture, which means they can stand up to stronger and more robust cheeses.

Goat's cheese and dried figs

Goats cheese and dried figs are a delicious combination. The tangy and creamy texture of goat's cheese is offset by the sweetness of dried figs, creating a delightful balance of flavours.

When preparing this pairing, it is recommended to use soft and fresh goat's cheese at room temperature to ensure a creamy and smooth texture. Dried figs can be quartered or sliced, and they may need to be soaked or cooked to soften them before serving.

One simple way to serve this combination is on a crostini. To make this appetiser, you can spread some goat's cheese on a slice of baguette and top it with a dried fig puree. Another option is to stuff the dried figs with goat's cheese and roast them in the oven. You can also add other ingredients such as honey, nuts, or prosciutto to enhance the flavour profile.

For a more substantial dish, you can try a salad with mixed greens, dried figs, goat's cheese, and almonds. The combination of sweet and savoury flavours in this salad is sure to satisfy your palate.

Blue cheese and dried figs

To make the most of this flavour combination, try making a balsamic reduction to drizzle over the figs and cheese. Simply simmer balsamic vinegar over a medium-low heat until it thickens, then remove from the heat and leave to cool. This makes an elegant and easy appetiser that can be served at room temperature.

Another option is to stuff the figs with blue cheese. Cut a slit into the side of each fig and stuff with around half a teaspoon of blue cheese. Larger figs can take more cheese, while smaller figs will hold less. Secure the stuffed figs with a toothpick and pan-fry until lightly browned on all sides, or place under the grill for a brief period to melt the cheese. Again, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar will complement this dish.

Whether you serve them as a simple appetiser or a sophisticated canapé, blue cheese and dried figs are sure to impress your guests.

Parmesan and dried figs

Parmesan is a classic hard cheese that pairs well with dried figs. It has a nutty and salty flavour that complements the sweetness of the figs. Grating the cheese and sprinkling it over dried figs is a great pairing. You can also include it on a cheese board with dried figs.

Prosciutto, Fig and Parmesan Rolls is a quick and easy appetiser. Just wrap a ribbon of prosciutto around a wafer of Parmesan cheese nestled against a sliver of dried fig, and drizzle with olive or truffle oil.

You can also try a Roasted Fig, Bacon & Parmesan Salad. The salty bacon and Parmesan complement the sweetness of the roasted figs.

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, dried figs can be used in a Fig, Walnut and Parmesan Salad. The walnuts add a crunchy texture, while the Parmesan brings intensity and saltiness to the dish.

Cheddar and dried figs

Cheddar and Dried Fig Bread

For a savoury treat, try baking a loaf of cheddar and fig bread. This bread combines the sweetness of dried figs with the sharpness of cheddar, resulting in a delicious and easy-to-make snack. The recipe is simple: combine flour, salt, yeast, and water, then add diced dried figs and grated sharp cheddar cheese. After letting the dough rise, fold in the figs and cheese, knead, and bake. The result is a crusty, flavourful bread that's perfect for sharing with neighbours or enjoying as a side dish.

California Fig and Bacon Cheddar Bites

For a more indulgent treat, try California Fig and Bacon Cheddar Bites. These appetisers are a fun twist on traditional baguette appetizers. The bites combine sharp cheddar, cream cheese, chopped dried figs, green onions, and bacon. The mixture is spread on thinly sliced baguette slices and baked until toasted and melted. These bites make a great party snack or elegant appetiser for guests.

Aged Cheddar and Dried Figs on a Cheese Board

Creating a cheese board is a wonderful way to showcase the combination of aged cheddar and dried figs. The sharpness and nuttiness of aged cheddar beautifully complement the concentrated sweetness of dried figs. Look for varieties of aged cheddar ranging from mild to extra sharp, and choose ripe, sweet figs to balance the sharpness of the cheese. Add some walnuts, honey, and olives to the board for a truly indulgent experience.

When pairing dried figs with cheddar, consider the texture contrast. Dried figs have a chewy texture that pairs well with the smooth, creamy mouthfeel of cheddar. Additionally, the sharpness of cheddar balances the sweetness of dried figs, creating a complex and satisfying taste experience.

Brie and dried figs

Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavour that pairs well with the sweetness of dried figs. When pairing Brie with dried figs, it is best to choose a ripe Brie that is at room temperature. This will allow the cheese to be soft and creamy, enhancing the flavour of the dried figs.

One delicious recipe idea is Baked Brie with Fig Jam. This can be made by placing a wheel of Brie into a small cast-iron skillet or other oven-safe dish, coating it with fig jam, and baking it in the oven. You can also add toppings such as nuts and dried fruit, or a drizzle of honey, to add texture and balance out the sweetness of the jam.

Another option is to pair dried figs and Brie with other complementary foods. For example, you could create a cheese board with dried figs, Brie, prosciutto, walnuts, honey, and olives. Alternatively, you could make a sandwich with Brie, dried figs, prosciutto, and arugula.

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