Fruit with Savory Fig Jam & Caviar

This simple yet elevated appetizer will definitely shine at your next dinner party. It's also a sophisticated addition to your vegan charcuterie board!

Ingredients:

• 1 small watermelon, balled

• 1 quart strawberries, sliced

• 1/2 Tbsp toasted sesame oil

• 2 garlic cloves, smashed

• 1/2 medium shallot, quartered

• 1 C dried figs, stems removed and chopped

• 3/4 cup water (plus more as needed)

• 1 Tbsp soy sauce

• Juice of half a lime (save zest for garnish)

• 1/2 Tbsp white miso paste

• 1 Tbsp coconut sugar

• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

• 1/2 tsp agar agar powder

• Vegan Caviar (I used Zeroe brand)

Method:

1. In a small pot, heat toasted sesame oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and shallot and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

2. Add chopped figs, water, soy sauce, lime juice, miso paste, coconut sugar, and black pepper to the same pot. Stir well to dissolve the miso. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, until the figs are soft and the mixture begins to thicken.

3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to a blender or use an immersion blender to purée until mostly smooth, leaving a little texture if desired.

4. Return the mixture to the pot. Stir in the agar agar powder and simmer for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly to activate the agar. Once thickened, remove from heat.

5. Let cool, then transfer to a jar. Chill in the fridge to set further — the jam will become spreadable and slightly gelled.

6. Assemble plate by placing sliced strawberries and balled watermelon in a circular shape and filling in the gaps with piped savory fig jam, vegan caviar, and lime zest!