Ah, figs. One of the oldest fruits consumed by humans. Symbolic of peace and prosperity, a favorite of the beloved Prophet Muhammed, peace be upon him, and important to Islam, Christianity, Judaism and other world religions. This fruit was used to sweeten food long before the introduction of sugar to our diets. It is juicy, syrupy sweet, delicate, and fleeting! Fig season is so short it’s easy to miss. Which is why we were delighted to receive a box of fresh figs from a customer who brought them from her farm in Al Masafi. That’s right, figs are grown right here in the UAE, and they are available now in supermarkets. We couldn’t help but use these beautiful figs in a classic pairing alongside creamy sheep’s milk ricotta and honey. It was nothing short of stunning!

cooking time: 5 minutes

• 2 slices of For the Love of Bread organic country sourdough batard, toasting is optional
• sheep’s milk ricotta cheese (cow’s milk ricotta works great as well)
• fresh figs, some sliced and some quartered
• honey

To serve

Spread the ricotta generously on top of the sourdough toasts. Delicately place the figs on top. Drizzle with honey. Enjoy and relish the beautiful simplicity of a ripe, juicy fig!