Equipment
Oven
8x12 inch baking dish
or Cast iron skillet or ceramic roasting pan
Chef's knife
Broiler
Ingredients
6 servings
Main
- 510 g goat cheese, log format
- 4 fresh fig leaves, whole
- 10 figs, stems on
- 1 g fine sea salt
- 1 g black pepper
- 3 g fresh thyme, chopped
- 45 ml extra virgin olive oil
Nutrition (per serving)
341
Calories
16g
Protein
13g
Carbs
26g
Fat
2g
Fiber
11g
Sugar
456mg
Sodium
Method
01
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
02
Slice the goat cheese log into 6 thick rounds.
03
Slice the figs in half lengthwise, keeping the stems intact.
04
Line the baking dish with fig leaves if using, then place the cheese rounds in the center and arrange figs around them.
05
Season the cheese and figs with salt, pepper, and chopped thyme, then drizzle with olive oil.
06
Bake uncovered at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes until the cheese softens and figs are tender.
15mLook for: Figs appear slumped and juicyFeel: Cheese is soft to the touch
07
Switch to the broiler and cook for 1 minute until the cheese is lightly browned.
1mLook for: Edges of cheese are golden brown
08
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
5m
Chef's Notes
- For the best flavor and texture, use ripe but firm figs. If they are too soft, they will become mushy when baked.
- If fresh fig leaves are unavailable, you can bake the dish directly in the dish. The leaves impart a subtle, earthy aroma.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish. Give the figs and cheese a little space to allow for even roasting and browning.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before baking. Ripe figs can be quite sweet, so balance is key.
- The broiler step is crucial for achieving a beautiful golden-brown crust on the cheese, but requires constant vigilance to prevent burning.
Storage
Refrigerator: 72 hours — Store in an airtight container.
Reheating: Warm in a 175°C (350°F) oven for 5-8 minutes.
