Recipe: Chocolate-Dipped Figs with Almonds (using dried figs)

CHOCOLATE-DIPPED FIGS WITH ALMONDS

1 1/4 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2/3 cup unsalted almonds, toasted, chopped
24 dried plump figs, such as Calimyrna*

Line a large sheet tray with parchment paper and transfer almonds to a wide, shallow dish; set both aside.

Put chocolate into a small pot and heat over medium low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth, about 5 minutes.

Working with one at a time, hold a fig by the stem and carefully dip it into the chocolate, coating it about halfway up. Shake off any excess chocolate, roll the bottom in almonds and transfer to the sheet tray. (If chocolate becomes too stiff, reheat it briefly over medium low heat.)

Set figs aside in a cool spot until chocolate is set, about 2 hours. (Alternately, chill the figs for about 20 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden, and then return them to room temperature.)

*For the best results, reshape the dried figs a bit with your hands to bring back their natural teardrop shape before dipping them in chocolate.

Makes 2 dozen
Source: Whole Foods Market