This dish of grilled figs and prosciutto makes a very impressive appetizer. Thin slices of prosciutto are wrapped around fresh figs. The grilled figs caramelize slightly, and the ham loses most of its fat but none of its delicious saltiness.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Grilling time: 6 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
2 tablespoons dry white wine
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
4 large ripe fresh figs
4 (or 8, if desired) thin slices prosciutto or other spiced ham
Pepper to taste (optional)
Prepare a medium fire in a charcoal or gas grill.
In a small saucepan, combine the wine and honey.
Stir over low heat just until the honey blends with the wine.
Don’t allow the mixture to boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the mustard.
Cut the figs into quarters.
Thread 4 fig quarters and 1 slice (or 2 slices, if desired) of prosciutto on each of 4 skewers.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before adding to food to prevent them from burning.
Brush the figs and prosciutto with the wine-honey basting sauce and sprinkle each with pepper (if desired).
Place the skewers on a lightly oiled grid.
Grill for 5 to 6 minutes, turning often and brushing with the basting sauce.
Serve hot.