Fig and Raisin 'Cream'

Fig and Raisin 'Cream' Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Delight

| Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

This Fig and Raisin 'Cream' recipe is a delicious and unique dessert that combines the rich flavors of dried figs and raisins with red wine and warm spices. The result is a creamy and indulgent treat that can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for other dishes.

History

This recipe has its origins in traditional European cuisine, where dried fruits were often used to create rich and flavorful desserts. The combination of figs and raisins with red wine and spices has been enjoyed for centuries, and this modern twist on the classic recipe adds a creamy texture that is sure to please.

Ingredients

125 g / 4 oz well-soaked dried figs
125 g / 4 oz stoned raisins
275 ml / 10 fl oz / 1.25 cups red wine (not too dry)
a good pinch of ground black pepper
0.33 tsp ground cinnamon
0.13 tsp ground cloves
soft dark brown sugar to taste
3 tsp rice flour or cornflour
a drop or two of red food coloring
salt to taste

How to prepare

Drain the figs, while keeping the soaking liquid.
Remove the stalk ends of the fruit and place them in a saucepan along with the raisins and wine.
Add the spices and a teaspoon of sugar, then bring the mixture to a boil.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly, then transfer the mixture to an electric blender and process until smooth.
If the mixture is too thick, add a little of the soaking water.
Combine the rice flour or cornflour with some more soaking water or wine, and add a drop of food colouring to enhance the color.
Blend the "cream" into the dried-fruit purée.
Return the entire mixture to the saucepan and simmer until it thickens slightly.
Season with salt and a little extra sugar, if desired.
The mixture can be served hot or cold over a sweet cereal dish, firm stewed fruit, or even better, ice cream.
In some versions, the mixture is thicker and can be used as a filling for tartlets or fried puffs.
One option is to enclose the filling in pastry to create dumplings.

Variations

Add a splash of rum or brandy for an extra kick of flavor.
Top the 'cream' with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added texture and taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak the dried figs well before using them in this recipe to ensure they are soft and plump.

- Adjust the amount of sugar to taste, as the sweetness of the dessert can vary depending on the ripeness of the fruit and the dryness of the wine.

- For a smoother texture, blend the mixture in a high-speed blender until completely smooth.

- Serve the 'cream' hot or cold, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Fig and Raisin 'Cream' over a bowl of warm oatmeal or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the mixture gently to allow the flavors to meld together and the 'cream' to thicken.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use dried apricots or prunes in place of the figs for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute white wine for the red wine for a lighter taste.

Make Ahead Tips

The Fig and Raisin 'Cream' can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the 'cream' in individual dessert cups garnished with a fresh mint leaf for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dessert with a glass of port or sherry for a sophisticated finish to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the 'cream' gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- 150 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 22g

Fats

- Total Fat: 0g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Total Protein: 1g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 1mg

- Calcium: 20mg

- Iron: 1mg

Alergens

This recipe may contain sulfites from the red wine.

Summary

This Fig and Raisin 'Cream' recipe is a low-fat and low-calorie dessert option that is rich in carbohydrates and natural sugars. It also provides a small amount of dietary fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Fig and Raisin 'Cream' recipe is a delightful and flavorful dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its rich combination of dried fruits, red wine, and warm spices, this creamy treat is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it on its own or as a topping for your favorite dishes for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little cottage by the sea. As soon as I entered her kitchen, the sweet aroma of figs and raisins filled the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

Martha was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of what looked like a creamy concoction. Curious, I asked her what she was making, and she smiled mischievously before revealing the recipe for her famous Fig and Raisin 'Cream'.

She explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from her great-grandmother who hailed from the Mediterranean. The secret to the delectable dish, she said, lay in the combination of fresh figs, plump raisins, and a hint of cinnamon.

Intrigued, I watched as Martha expertly combined the ingredients, letting them simmer and meld together into a velvety smooth consistency. The kitchen was filled with the rich, comforting scent of spices and fruit, and I could hardly wait to taste the final product.

When Martha finally ladled out a generous portion of the Fig and Raisin 'Cream' into a delicate porcelain bowl, I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a realm of pure bliss. The sweetness of the figs and raisins was perfectly balanced by the subtle warmth of the cinnamon, creating a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

I begged Martha for the recipe, and she graciously obliged, writing it down for me on a weathered piece of parchment. From that day on, Fig and Raisin 'Cream' became a staple in my culinary repertoire, a dish that never failed to delight and impress.

Over the years, I experimented with Martha's recipe, adding my own twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. I discovered that a splash of brandy infused the dish with a subtle richness, while a dollop of whipped cream on top added a touch of decadence.

I shared the recipe with friends and family, who were all equally enamored with the Fig and Raisin 'Cream'. It became a cherished tradition at holiday gatherings and special occasions, a dish that brought people together and created lasting memories.

As I grew older, the recipe for Fig and Raisin 'Cream' became a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for creating delicious meals that nourished both body and soul. It reminded me of Martha and our shared love for good food and good company, a bond that transcended time and distance.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, stirring a pot of Fig and Raisin 'Cream' just like Martha taught me all those years ago, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey that brought me to this moment. The recipe may have originated from a distant land and a bygone era, but its magic lives on in every spoonful of creamy goodness.

And so, dear reader, I urge you to seek out the recipes that speak to your soul, that awaken your senses and nourish your spirit. For in the kitchen, as in life, the truest joys are found in the simple act of creating something beautiful and delicious to share with those you love.