Figs

Yesterday I sat in an important meeting with some fellow interns and the California Fig Advisory Board. We sampled Black Mission figs (dried and fresh), dried Calimyrna figs, Mediterranean fig chutney and chocolate covered figs. The world of figs is beautiful, flowery and quite sweet. The fig industry means serious business and I am frank when I say that figs should be in everyones kitchen. This fruit, which looks like an inverted pink-colored flower when breaking through the skin, is fiber-filled and tastes like a rich honey confection.

Chocolate is just one ingredient, which beautifully compliments this amazing fruit. This dessert is absolutely mind-blowing! It is perfect for cocktail parties or for any day of the week.

Chocolate Covered Figs (recipe from California Fig Advisory Board):

4 whole California fresh figs with stems
Fine sea salt, as needed
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Wash and dry figs. Dust lightly with salt; set aside.
Measure chocolate chips into microwavable bowl. Microwave on High for 30 seconds and stir.
Microwave on High for 30 more seconds and stir until the chocolate is completely melted.
Holding the fig by the stem, dip in melted chocolate and set on wax paper-lined tray.
Let stand until chocolate is set.