Frangelico Figs with Creamy Blue Cheese and Toasted Hazelnuts
Frangelico is a hazelnut liqueur that is not overly sweet like some dessert liqueurs. It pairs deliciously with the salty cheese, adding to the silky texture and natural sweetness of figs.
This comes together in minutes, yet is still impressive, even with minimal ingredients. Recipe and picture courtesy of Luisa Ormonde of Luisa’s Catering.
Frangelico Figs with Creamy Blue Cheese and Toasted Hazelnuts
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Frangelico or other hazelnut liqueur
- 8 fresh figs such as locally grown Black Mission figs, stems removed, cut in half lengthwise
- 8 oz. Montbriac cheese at room temperature, cut or crumbled into at least 8 equal pieces (there will be more if using crumbled); Cheese substitutes: use Cambozola or Le Petit Bleu
- 3/4 cup hazelnuts toasted and coarsely chopped
Instructions
- In a sauté or saucepan just large enough to hold the figs in one layer, bring the Frangelico to a boil, then turn the heat to medium-low. Add the figs, cut side down, and cook for 5 minutes, or until they begin to feel soft but not squishy.
- Reserving the liquid, use a slotted spoon to remove the figs. Arrange figs on a serving tray, cut side up, and immediately top with the cheese (so it will begin to melt).
- Meanwhile, increase the heat of the reserved liquid to high. Reduce the liqueur until it is a syrupy consistency, about 1 to 2 minutes. Watch carefully to make sure it doesn’t burn.