Fabulous Fig Bread

Directions

1. 1
   In a medium-sized heat-proof bowl, combine the figs and pistachios, add boiling water and let cool to room temperature, about 1 hour.
2. 2
   Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350F (180C).
3. 3
   Grease an 8 1/2 inch by 4 1/2 inch loaf pan.
4. 4
   In medium sized bowl, combine the flour, baking soda and salt.
5. 5
   In a large bowl, beat the butter until fluffy.
6. 6
   Gradually beat in the sugar.
7. 7
   Add the egg and vanilla and beat for 1 to 2 minutes, or until lightened.
8. 8
   Add the dry ingredients and beat until just blended.
9. 9
   With a spoon, blend in the fig mixture.
10. 10
    Turn into the prepared pan and bake 1 to 1 1/4 hours, or until the bread just begins to pull away from the sides of the pan, and the top springs back when lightly touched.
11. 11
    Cool in pan on a rack for 15 minutes, and then turn out and cool completely.
12. 12
    Wrap in plastic and store overnight before serving.
13. 13
    Cut into thin slices.