Fresh Fig & Apple Compote

Difficulty: easy Prep Time: Fifteen Minutes Total Time: Under an hour
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4 bacon strips, sliced thinly
2 tbsp red onion, minced
12 figs, stems removed and chopped
4 tsp fresh garlic, minced
1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and grated
4 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Salt & pepper

Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add bacon and cook until the bacon starts to take on some colour and the fat has rendered out. Add onion, figs and garlic, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook until onion is translucent (about 2 minutes). Add apple and cook an additional 3 minutes. Add sugar and turn the heat up on high. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often. Add vinegar and shake the pan vigorously to ensure the liquid deglazes the bottom of the pan. When the vinegar is nearly evaporated, remove pan from heat and season to taste. Serve on toasted English muffins or delicately flavoured meats, such as pork or veal. Yield: 2-4 servings