Marsala-Poached Figs

Ingredients

• 3  peppercorns black
• 1 stick cinnamon (3-inch)
• 8.5 ounces mission figs fresh black halved
• 1 tablespoon honey 
• 0.5 cup plum brandy 

Equipment

• sauce pan

Directions

1. Combine first 4 ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil; cook 7 minutes or until syrupy.
2. Add figs; cook 1 minute or until thoroughly heated.
3. Choice ingredient
4. Fresh figs need very little adornment and cooking, thanks to their subtle, sweet flavor and dense texture. For a quick, pleasurable ending to a meal, serve figs raw, or gently simmer them in a sauce for just a few minutes. Figs are available twice a year, with the first crop available from June through July, and the second crop coming in early September and lasting through mid-October.