Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Walnut, Fig, and Blue Cheese Crackers


So apparently there is some big sports game coming up.  I'm not sure, but I think there may be a field and some kind of ball involved.  This may just be a rumor though.  But that is enough sports talk there to last me a lifetime- let's move on to food.

These crackers are a wonderful choice for an appetizer.  I appreciate the convenience of store bought crackers, but homemade crackers aren't hard to make if you have a little time.  These crackers were inspired by the wonderful Ina Garten, and I combined the sweet, seedy figs with salty blue cheese, and crunch walnuts.  They are great for snacking on plain or with a smear of some wonderful cheese on top.

These are a great snack food for watching any event on television.  I choose to enjoy these while watching the Real Housewives, not the Super Bowl, thank you very much.

WALNUT, FIG, AND BLUE CHEESE CRACKERS
Adapted from Ina Garten

INGREDIENTS

7 ounces dried mission figs, chopped
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup buttered, softened
8 ounces blue cheese crumbles, room temperature
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tablespoon kosher salt
4-5 tablespoons water
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375°F.

In a small saucepan combine figs and water over medium heat.  Bring water to a boil and cook for 5-7 minutes, until all liquid has evaporated.  Set aside.

In a bowl, cream butter and blue cheese together.  Stir in flour and salt. Stir in water 1 tablespoon at a time, until a soft dough forms.  Fold in figs and walnuts.

Roll into 2 6 inch logs and wrap in plastic wrap.  Freeze for 30 minutes, then chill in refrigerator.  Slice 1/4 inch thick slices.  Spread on baking sheet covered with parchment paper.  Sprinkle with kosher salt Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.  Set aside.

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1 comment:

  1. wow these do sound like wonderful appetizers! Whether for aforementioned sports game accompaniment, or just because.

    ReplyDelete