Caramelised Fig Tart with Vanilla Mascarpone and Saffron Honey Syrup

Figs are versatile fruits. You can have them in both savoury and sweet dishes.

They're lusciously sweet and delicious and are wonderful additions to any dish.

 I just wish fresh figs are available throughout the year.

 
This is a very easy, simple and quick dessert to whip up.
A great ending to your meal that I'm sure you and your guests would love.

Enjoy!

Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry, cut in 4 sqaures
6 fresh figs cut in half
500g mascarpone
1 tablespoon icing sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla essence
100g caster sugar
100ml water
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
1 cinnamon quill
1 star anise
1 clove
Fresh mint leaves to garnish
Method:
* For the syrup, place sugar, saffron, water, honey, cinnamon, anise and clove into a pan on low heat and bring to the boil. Simmer for further 5 minutes and allow to cool.
* For the tart filling, fold vanilla essence, icing sugar and mascarpone together in a bowl.
* Place fig halves on a baking tray and dust with some icing sugar. Grill for about 5 minutes and allow to cool.
* Bake puff pastry as per instructions.
* Top the tart with mascarpone mix and arrange the figs on top of each tart. Drizzle honey syrup over and around the tart. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.




Recipe adapted from Chef Marcus Turner.