Colombian
⭐ Highly Rated
25 minmedium
ColombianDessert
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsBrevas con Queso is a cherished Colombian dessert that showcases the country's love for pairing sweet fruits with fresh cheese. Fresh figs are gently poached in a fragrant syrup infused with cinnamon, cloves, and panela until they become tender and infused with warming spices. The cooked figs are traditionally served alongside or topped with slices of mild, fresh cheese that provides a delightful salty contrast to the sweet, syrupy fruit. This dessert is often enjoyed during special family gatherings and is a testament to Colombia's rich culinary heritage. The combination of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable experience that has been passed down through generations of Colombian families.
Instructions
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Rinse the fresh figs thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a sharp paring knife, carefully trim the stem ends without cutting too deeply into the fruit.
In a large saucepan, combine 4 cups of water with the panela or brown sugar, stirring over medium heat until completely dissolved. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and a pinch of salt to the syrup.
Once the syrup begins to simmer, carefully add the prepared figs to the pot. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid, adding more water if necessary. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Simmer the figs uncovered for 35-40 minutes, turning them occasionally with a slotted spoon to ensure even cooking. The figs should become tender and the syrup should thicken slightly and take on a deep amber color.
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the figs to cool in the syrup for at least 15 minutes. This resting period allows the fruit to absorb more of the spiced flavors.
While the figs are cooling, slice the fresh cheese into portions approximately 1/4 inch thick. Traditional Colombian queso fresco or mozzarella works beautifully.
To serve, place 2-3 warm figs in individual serving bowls, ladle some of the spiced syrup over them, and place slices of cheese alongside or on top. The cheese will slightly soften from the warmth of the figs.
Brevas con Queso
4.5 (26)
Sweet figs simmered in spiced syrup and served with fresh cheese, a beloved traditional treat that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors in every bite.
medium
1h
6 servings
Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
- 12 pieces fig, fresh, stems trimmed
- 1 1/2 cups cheese-mozzarella, sliced into thick pieces
Syrup
- 8 tablespoons honey, or panela if available
Spices
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon, whole sticks preferred
- 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoons vanilla-extract (optional)
Chef Tips
expert advice•For the most authentic flavor, seek out fresh black mission figs or brown turkey figs at farmers markets during peak season.
•If panela is unavailable, dark brown sugar makes an acceptable substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
•The cheese should be mild and fresh - avoid aged or sharp cheeses that will compete with the delicate fig flavor.
•Some Colombian families add a splash of aguardiente or rum to the syrup for an adult version.
•The figs can be prepared a day ahead and gently reheated before serving.
•For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of ground cinnamon.
•The leftover syrup can be drizzled over ice cream or used to sweeten coffee.
•If fresh figs are out of season, this recipe can be adapted using dried figs, though you will need to increase the cooking liquid and extend the simmering time.
