Figs with Bacon and Chile

A luxurious appetizer featuring ripe figs caramelized in maple syrup, topped with crispy bacon pieces and a spicy-sweet drizzle. The combination of sweet figs, salty bacon, and spicy chile creates an elegant and flavorful dish.

4 servings
18 min

Ingredients

  • 5 ounces slab bacon
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 8 whole ripe fresh figs
  • 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Cook bacon pieces in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low, stirring often, until brown and crisp, 8-10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a small bowl.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Pour off all but 2 Tbsp. fat from skillet; save for another use. Add maple syrup to skillet, swirling to combine, and heat over medium-high. Arrange figs in skillet in a single layer, cut side down. Cook, swirling liquid occasionally, until figs are slightly softened and caramelized, about 5 minutes.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Arrange figs cut side up on a platter and press pieces of bacon onto the surface of each fig.

    2 min

  4. 4.

    Set the skillet over medium heat, add vinegar, and stir into juices. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, until syrupy, about 1 minute. Drizzle syrup over figs, then sprinkle with red pepper.

    1 min