3 sweet fig paste Recipes

bone-in beef short ribs *, 3/4 to 1 lb. each, onion, coarsely chopped, garlic cloves, smashed, fresh thyme sprigs, rosemary sprigs (7 to 8 in . each), dried bay leaves, kosher salt, fresh fig leaves, stems trimmed, rinsed; or use 4 (12- by 12-in.) pieces thawed frozen banana leaves, cabernet sauvignon, balsamic vinegar, dried mission figs, stems trimmed, mole sauce* (preferably oaxacan-style mole negro ); or use 1/4 cup mole paste mixed with 3/4 cup beef broth, molasses, beef broth, sweet-potato chips or other root-vegetable chips (optional), cacao nibs, salted roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), salt

olive oil, divided, boneless leg of lamb, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces, salt, divided, freshly ground black pepper, divided, chopped onion, thick) slices parsnip, ground cumin, garam masala, ruby port or other sweet red wine, chile paste with garlic, dried figs, halved (about 5 oz), less-sodium beef broth, water, divided, cornstarch, uncooked couscous, chopped fresh parsley (optional)