Recipe by Claire Saffitz, Bon Appètit
Figs with Bacon and Chile
Ingredients
5 ounces slab bacon, sliced ½ inch thick, then sliced crosswise into ½-inch pieces
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
8 ripe fresh figs, halved lengthwise
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, finely chopped
Recipe Preparation
Cook bacon pieces in a large non-stick skillet over medium-low, stirring often, until brown and crisp, 8–10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a small bowl.
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.
Arrange figs cut side up on a platter and press pieces of bacon onto the surface of each fig.
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.
Feature Image: Alex Lau