Meat Stuffed Figs Recipe
Figs stuffed with meat – this dish is very unique, beautiful, colorful and delicious. Stuffed figs are perfect dish for festive meals, weekends and holidays.
MEAT STUFFED FIGS
I’m thrilled to introduce my latest culinary creation: Meat-Stuffed Figs. This delectable dish combines the sweetness of ripe figs with the savory richness of seasoned ground meat, resulting in a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures. The figs are carefully hollowed out to create a perfect vessel for the succulent meat mixture, which is generously seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. Once stuffed, they are gently roasted or grilled to perfection, allowing the figs to caramelize slightly and the meat to develop a mouthwatering crust. The end result is a symphony of taste sensations that are sure to delight the palate, making Meat-Stuffed Figs a unique and unforgettable addition to any dining experience. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or the star of the meal, these meat-stuffed figs are bound to leave a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to savor them.
Recipe inspired by Reut Ezer
CONTROL THE SWEETNESS
This dish was made for Rosh Hashanah (Jewish new year) and according to the tradition we make dishes with honey or other sweet ingredients. This is the reason why this dish is pretty sweet, it contains date syrup and pomegranate molasses, with makes the stuffed figs a bit sweet. I personally really like it, BUT you defiantly can control the sweetness and use less date syrup or omit it completely from the recipe. The result is still delicious! Â Â Â
WHAT TO SERVE WITH MEAT STUFFED FIGS?
Meat-stuffed figs can be a delightful addition to a variety of dining experiences. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this unique and flavorful dish:
- Rice Pilaf: Accompany your meat-stuffed figs with a fragrant rice pilaf. The subtle flavors of the rice will complement the rich and savory filling of the figs. Consider adding toasted nuts and dried fruits to the pilaf for extra texture and flavor.
- Salads: Create a vibrant salad with mixed greens, fresh herbs, and a light vinaigrette dressing. Place the meat-stuffed figs on top as a flavorful focal point. This combination of fresh greens and savory figs makes for a satisfying and balanced meal.
- Couscous: Serve meat-stuffed figs with a bed of fluffy couscous. The small grains of couscous will soak up any delicious juices from the figs and meat, adding another layer of flavor to your dish.
- Bread and Dips: Offer warm homemade pita bread or crusty baguette alongside your meat-stuffed figs. Create a selection of dipping sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or a garlic-infused olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
- Mashed Potatoes: Pair your meat-stuffed figs with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal. The sweet and savory figs will contrast beautifully with the buttery potatoes.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grill or roast a medley of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. The smoky flavors of the vegetables will complement the meat-stuffed figs, creating a well-rounded main course.
- Sauces: Elevate your dish by serving meat-stuffed figs with a complementary sauce, such as a red wine reduction, a creamy mushroom sauce, or a citrus-infused beurre blanc. These sauces can enhance the overall dining experience.
- Quinoa Salad: For a healthier twist, pair meat-stuffed figs with a quinoa salad. Quinoa provides protein and a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet and savory figs.
- Mezze platter: As part of a Middle Eastern-inspired mezze platter, meat-stuffed figs can be paired with hummus, falafel, pita bread, and other Mediterranean treats.
By incorporating these side dishes and accompaniments, you can transform meat-stuffed figs into a hearty and satisfying main course, perfect for a special dinner or a memorable gathering with family and friends.
Meat Stuffed Figs Recipe
Ingredients
- 25-30 Figs
For the filling:
- 300 g Ground beef/lamb
- 2 Onions chopped
- ½ tablespoon Garam masala/Baharat
- ¼ cup Ground almonds
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Sumac
- 2-3 tablespoons Olive oil
- Zaatar/thyme leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons of the fig filling
For the sauce:
- 3-4 tablespoons of the fig filling
- 2 tablespoons Pomegranate molasses/syrup
- 2 tablespoons Date syrup
- 3-4 tablespoons Olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Zaatar leaves
Instructions
- DIRECTIONS
- Preheat oven to 180C (350F). Prepare large round baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the filling: In a medium sized pan heat olive oil. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden, about 10 minutes.
- Add the meat and cook on high heat, while breaking it apart for about 5 minutes. Add the spices, almonds, zaatar and mix. Transfer to a bowl and allow to cool.
- Prepare the figs: cut the top of the figs, then using a spoon, scoop out the flesh of the figs. Place all the flesh in a bowl for later.
- Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the flesh and add the meat mixture and mix. Fill each fig with the meat mixture.
- Arrange the figs in the baking pan and cover the fig "lid".
- Prepare the sauce: place all sauce ingredients in a bowl, add the fig flesh and mix until combined.
- Pour over the figs.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes.
- Serve!