There are many recipes for brevas con arequipe, and each one is a little bit different.
After all, everyone likes to put their unique touch on this traditional Colombian dessert. But here’s one of my favorites.
You can make brevas con arequipe with just a few ingredients. You’ll need 6 figs, 100 grams of sugar, a cinnamon stick, 1 cup of Arequipe, and 100ml of water. Next, mix all the ingredients in a pan over medium heat. After it thickens, let it cool and serve it with cheese or toffee.In this guide, I’ll be using a traditional Colombian recipe to make the brevas con arequipe.
I’ll also give you some background details about this classic Colombian dessert and why it’s one of Colombia’s most popular dishes.
With this in mind, let’s get started.
What Is Brevas con Arequipe?
Brevas con arequipe is a traditional dessert in Colombia. It consists of figs stuffed with arequipe, which is a type of Colombian caramel sauce. The ingredients used in this recipe vary from region to region, but usually, it includes figs, sugar, cinnamon sticks, and arequipe.
This popular Colombian dessert can be served either hot or cold.
Origins of Brevas con Arequipe
Brevas con arequipe can be traced back to the Spanish colonial period in Colombia.
It’s believed that Spanish settlers introduced the recipe to the region, where it quickly became a local favorite.
Over time, the dessert has evolved and become an integral part of Colombian culinary heritage.
Ingredients and Preparation
The Brevas
Brevas are a type of fig that is larger and darker than their cousin, the common fig.
They have a more robust flavor and firmer texture, making them perfect for stuffing and cooking.
The figs are usually poached in a sugar syrup until tender, which also enhances their natural sweetness.
The Arequipe
Arequipe, also known as dulce de leche, is a thick, caramel-like spread made from sweetened condensed milk.
It’s slowly heated and stirred until it reaches a rich, deep caramel color and a velvety texture.
This sweet and creamy concoction is then used to stuff the figs, creating a delightful contrast between the soft fruit and the indulgent filling.
How To Serve Brevas con Arequipe
Brevas con arequipe can be served hot or cold with cheese, toffee, crema de Leche (creamy milk), or simply on its own.
It’s a great dessert for any occasion, and it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
If you want to really impress them, serve it up with a glass of ice-cold Colombian aguardiente (anise-flavored liqueur) as well.
Alternatively, you can use brevas con arequipe to make delicious ice cream.
Simply mix the figs, sugar, cinnamon sticks, and arequipe together in a blender until it forms a thick paste.
Then freeze it for several hours before serving.
No matter how you decide to serve your brevas con arequipe, it’s sure to be a hit.
After all, it’s a unique Colombian dessert that’s been enjoyed for generations.
Making Brevas con Arequipe at Home
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the figs by removing the stems and making a small cross-shaped incision at the top of each fig.
- Combine water and sugar in a large saucepan to create a syrup. Add the figs and simmer until they’re tender and the syrup has thickened.
- While the figs are cooking, prepare the arequipe by slowly heating sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a caramel-like consistency.
- Once the figs are cooked, remove them from the syrup and allow them to cool slightly before carefully opening the incisions and stuffing them with the arequipe.
- Chill the stuffed figs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips for Making Brevas con Arequipe
While the brevas con arequipe recipe itself is pretty simple and easy to make, there are certainly a few tips that can make all the difference when it comes to the final results.
So, here are a few pointers to keep in mind while making brevas con arequipe:
- Make sure to use the freshest figs you can find. Ripe, sweet figs make all the difference in this recipe.
- Don’t let the mixture boil for too long, as this can affect its texture and consistency.
- If you want to add a bit of spice, you can try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice.
- Make sure to let the mixture cool down before serving. Otherwise, it will be too hot and won’t taste as good.
- If you want an extra sweet version, you can add more sugar or Arequipe.
- Serve it with your favorite cheese, toffee, or even ice cream. Delicious!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store brevas con arequipe, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you’d like to enjoy them warm, simply reheat them in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds until they reach your desired temperature.
Final Thoughts
Brevas con arequipe is a traditional Colombian dessert that many enjoy.
It’s easy to make and can be served either hot or cold with different accompaniments.
So if you’re looking for a delicious and unique dessert, give this recipe a try today!
Sources
- My Colombian Cocina: Recipe of the week – Brevas with Arequipe
- My Columbian Recipes: brevas con arequipe
- Nomad Paradise: 18 Desserts You Need to Try in Colombia
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Jorge Garcia is the founder of AmigoFoods, where he has spent over 20 years helping readers discover authentic Latin American and Spanish cuisine. Raised in a Cuban-American household, Jorge learned to cook at the hands of his mother and grandmother, carrying forward generations of family recipes. That heritage, backed by his family’s four-generation history in the Latin food industry, inspired him to launch AmigoFoods in 2003. With more than 1,000 published articles on recipes, ingredients, and food culture, Jorge’s mission is simple: make authentic Latin cooking approachable for home cooks everywhere while honoring the traditions behind every dish.