Imagine a culinary creation that dances between sweet and savory, a recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary taste sensation. Our Fig Conserve with Two Onion Cream Cheese is not just a dish—it's a gourmet experience that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers. This unique recipe combines the luscious sweetness of fresh figs with a creamy, onion-infused spread that promises to elevate your appetizer repertoire from mundane to magnificent.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh figs, chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the fresh figs by washing them thoroughly and removing any stems. Chop the figs into small, uniform pieces, ensuring they are roughly 1/4 inch in size.
- In a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the chopped figs, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture gently to ensure the sugar begins to dissolve and coat the fig pieces.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the fig mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- While the fig conserve is cooking, finely dice the medium onion into small, consistent pieces. Use a sharp knife to create uniform cuts.
- Continue cooking the fig mixture for approximately 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently. The conserve should thicken and become glossy, with figs breaking down and creating a jam-like consistency.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and finely chopped onion. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
- Season the cream cheese mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning gradually and tasting as you go.
- Once the fig conserve has reached the desired consistency, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. The mixture will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer the cooled fig conserve to a clean, sterilized glass jar. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and conserve to set completely.
- When ready to serve, spread the onion cream cheese on a serving plate and top with a generous spoonful of the fig conserve. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Choose ripe, fresh figs for the most intense flavor. Look for figs that are soft but not mushy, with a deep color and sweet aroma.
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution when making the conserve.
- Stir the fig mixture frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and achieve the perfect jam-like consistency.
- For a smoother cream cheese mixture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
- Finely dice the onions to distribute the flavor evenly and prevent large chunks in the cream cheese.
- Allow the fig conserve to cool completely before refrigerating to help it set properly.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for advance party planning.
- For an extra flavor dimension, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the fig conserve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
