Miso Broiled Figs

I remember the first time I ate a fig. It was actually in Japan. Before that, the only figs I had tasted were inside of a cookie, so this was kind of a big deal. If you've never tasted one, I recommend tasting them fresh first. Just take a bite of the soft flesh and get to know the naturally beautiful sweetness as it sits on your tongue. After that, try it in all it's best forms: jam (duh), stuffed with goat cheese and wrapped in prosciutto, sliced on a grilled cheese sandwich, or simply broiled with a lovely miso glaze. Yes, Miso Broiled Figs are worth trying. They have the same salty-sweet combination you would get from wrapping them in prosciutto or bacon but it is slightly more subtle and takes a lot less work. I've decided that this just might be the perfect new addition to a cheese platter with a nice crisp glass of rosé.

This recipe was inspired by one of my favorite traditional Japanese dishes, nasu dengaku, or Miso Broiled Eggplant. The miso glaze is simple to mix together and not only works wonderfully on figs and eggplant, but can be used to glaze fish, chicken, pork, or beef. I like to make enough to use several times throughout the week. The only change I made to my miso glaze was to omit the mirin (making this another Go Sugar Free-friendly recipe) and replacing it with rice vinegar and a touch of water. Instead of sugar, I used raw, unfiltered honey but I think pure maple syrup would be lovely with the figs as well.

Speaking of Go Sugar Free, there are only 5 more days left to register for the next course! Check out my post here for more information about my experience as a Go Sugar Free student/graduate and also:

If you’re ready to learn more about Go Sugar Free, you can click here. If you decide to register, you’ll be making a massive change in your life that can’t do anything but help you become a better, healthier version of yourself.

If you’re interested in finding out more about Jacqueline’s philosophy but aren’t ready to commit to the GSF course, I urge you to get her eBook, 5 Easy Ways to Look Radiant Tomorrow Morning, and Don’t Waste Produce (DWP) Checklist (this is a HUGE help when it comes to no-waste meal planning and encouraging the consumption of more fresh, whole foods).

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Miso Broiled Figs

Serves 4-6 as an appetizer

Total time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 medium to large figs, halved lengthwise
• 1/4 cup white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons raw, unfiltered honey (or maple syrup)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Arrange the figs, cut side up, on a large baking sheet.
3. Place the figs in the oven for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and turn the broiler to low.
4. Meanwhile, mix the miso paste, honey, vinegar and water together in a small, microwavable bowl. Whisk to combine and microwave for 1 minute. Whisk again until smooth.
5. Use a brush to top each fig half with some of the miso glaze. You want enough for a thick coating because some of it will seep into the flesh of the figs and you want some left on top to create a nice, golden finish.
6. Place the glazed figs under the broiler and let them brown for 2-3 minutes or until there are some deep golden spots in the glaze.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.