24 California dried figs

3 c Cold water

1/4 c Cider vinegar

1 ts Whole cloves

1 c California brandy

-OR water & brandy flavoring 1 tb White corn syrup

24 Lightly browned almonds

Place figs and water in saucepan. Bring to hard boil, then lower heat to simmer. Cover and let cook 20 minutes. Add all ingredients except almonds. Stir gently in order not to break figs. Cover and simmer again for about 20 minutes or until figs are plump and transparent. Cool in syrup. Add a little water, if needed, but keep it rich. Just before serving, insert toasted almond in each fig. Delicious with roast turkey, baked chicken, beef, pork or ham. Source: 48 Family Favorites with California Figs Reprinted with the permission of The California Fig Advisory Board Electronic format courtesy of Karen Mintzias