Indulge in the elegance of Mediterranean flavors with this recipe for Figs in Mavrodaphne Wine with Manouri Cheese. Plump, juicy figs are gently poached in a rich, spiced wine reduction made from the sweet and aromatic Greek dessert wine, Mavrodaphne, infused with honey, cinnamon, star anise, and a touch of lemon zest. Paired with creamy, delicately tangy Manouri cheese that's gently warmed to perfection, this dish achieves a dreamy balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic notes. A sprinkling of toasted walnuts adds a delightful crunch, while fresh mint leaves provide a refreshing finish. Perfect for an elegant appetizer, a show-stopping dessert, or a wine-pairing party, this simple yet sophisticated recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and gourmet textures. Let this dish transport you to the sun-drenched vineyards of Greece!
Wash and gently pat dry the fresh figs. Using a paring knife, cut a small cross at the top of each fig, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
In a medium saucepan, combine the Mavrodaphne wine, honey, cinnamon stick, star anise, and lemon zest. Stir gently and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Once the wine mixture reaches a gentle simmer, add the figs to the pan. Reduce the heat to low and poach the figs for 15 minutes, occasionally spooning the liquid over them.
Carefully remove the figs with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a plate. Continue simmering the wine mixture for an additional 7-10 minutes, or until it reduces to a syrupy consistency.
Meanwhile, slice the Manouri cheese into even portions and gently warm it in a non-stick pan or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes, just until it softens slightly.
To assemble, place 2 figs on each serving plate. Add a slice of warmed Manouri cheese next to the figs. Drizzle the reduced wine syrup generously over the figs and cheese.
Sprinkle toasted walnuts over the dish and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
1610 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 78.5 g | 101% | |
| Saturated Fat | 38.0 g | 190% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 180 mg | 60% | |
| Sodium | 825 mg | 36% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 136.5 g | 50% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.0 g | 61% | |
| Total Sugars | 104.4 g | ||
| Protein | 38.0 g | 76% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1466 mg | 113% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 1520 mg | 32% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.