Name: Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 hr
Yield: Makes 24 hors d'oeuvres
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons minced shallot; 2 (3-inch) fresh thyme sprigs plus 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh thyme; 1/2 Turkish or 1/4 California bay leaf; 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 lb dried Black Mission figs, finely chopped (3/4 cup); 3/4 cup Port; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 12 (1/2-inch-thick) diagonally cut baguette slices; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 6 oz soft mild goat cheese at room temperature; 2 fresh ripe figs, cut into 1/2-inch pieces; Garnish: fresh thyme leaves

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Fig and Goat Cheese CrostiniMiki Duisterhof

Cooks' notes:

•Fig jam can be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered. Bring to room temperature before using.
•Toasts can be made 1 day ahead and cooled, then kept in an airtight container at room temperature.

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