Dessert · Do-ahead · Gluten Free · Vegan

Dried figs pickled in port and whisky

I have a jar of these sitting in my pantry and even when I first put them into the jar, they smelled incredible. Can’t wait to have them with a dollop of creme fraiche or icecream

Makes about 3 cups

1 cup water
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 cinnamon stick
1 tbsp pickling spices (mixed whole spices)
1lb dried figs, halved
2-3 tbsp whisky
1 cup port

Combine the water, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt and spices in a saucepan and bring to the boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 5 minutes, then add the figs and simmer for another 20 minutes.
Transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Leave to stand for 24 hours.
Drain the figs and reserve the syrup
Sprinkle the figs with the whisky and pack into a sterilized wide-mouthed jar. Add the port to the reserved syrup, bring to the boil then simmer for 5 minutes.
Pour this hot mixture over the figs to cover.
Seal the jar and store in a cool dark place for 1 month to mature (yeah baby!) before using.
Enjoy!!!