Honey Poached Figs

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown or granulated sugar
• 1/2 vanilla bean (, split lengthwise and seeded (optional))
• 1 cinnamon stick ((optional))
• 8 figs

Instructions

1. 1

   In a small or medium saucepan that's large enough to hold the figs, heat water, honey, and sugar (and vanilla and cinnamon, if using) on medium-high. Cook until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat to medium-low and add figs. Let simmer until tender but not mushy, 5-10 minutes, turning them occasionally so that each side is poached evenly. Using a slotted spoon, transfer figs to a bowl. Let the water-honey liquid continue simmering on medium-low heat until liquid reduces and thickens to a syrup consistency, about 15 more minutes. Let cool.

2. 2

   Once the figs have cooled slightly, remove stems and cut in half.

3. 3

   Keep sauce and figs in the refrigerator until ready to use. Serve at room temperature.

4. 4

   Arrange figs and serve as desired. Figs can be served either a dollop of whipped cream, mascarpone, crème fraiche, or yogurt, or alongside desserts such as cake, cheesecake, or crepes. Drizzle with syrup.