Figs Wrapped In Smoked Cured Ham Recipes

Steps:

• Prepare the figs: Combine the wine, 1 cup water, the cloves, allspice and peppercorns in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Pour over the figs in a large bowl and let soak at room temperature, 1 hour. (The figs can be prepared up to 1 week ahead; refrigerate in an airtight container.)
• Meanwhile, make the crema: Combine the blue cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, buttermilk and roasted garlic in a blender; puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. (The crema can be made up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate in an airtight container.)
• Drain the figs and remove the stems. Carefully wrap each fig with a piece of ham, trimming as necessary. Place small dollops of the crema on a serving platter. Arrange the wrapped figs on the crema and drizzle with the vinegar.

Steps:

• In a non-corrosive pot, combine all ingredients except fish. Bring to the boil, reduce, and simmer for 30 minutes. Add fish to simmering brine and poach 12 minutes before removing from the heat.
• Let stand to cool 1 hour before placing in a non-corrosive container large enough to hold all the liquid. Cover container and refrigerate fish totally submerged in brine for 3 days.
• Serve with black bread, sour cream, and onions.

Steps:

• Wash the figs well, then divide into eighths, cutting from the stem to within about 3/8-inch of the bottom, so that you can spread the wedges out like petals. On each of 4 salad plates, arrange 5 to 6 slices of prosciutto spoke-fashion to resemble flower petals. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with pepper. Place a fig in the center of each; then spread the wedges out like opening flowers. Let stand at room temperature 1 to 2 hours; then serve at the start of an elegant meal.