Ingredients

makes about 50

　　

Step 1

Blend in a food processor and reduce to a paste 1 pound dried pitted dates (of the soft, moist variety), then work in 1 pound coarsely chopped walnuts. Shape into marble sized balls and roll in confectioners’ sugar. They keep well for weeks and are good to serve with coffee.

　　

Variation

Step 2

For an Algerian version with dried figs, blend in the food processor 1 pound dried figs, 1 pound pitted dates, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon aniseed, then work in 1/2 pound coarsely chopped nuts. Shape into marble sized balls and roll in confectioners’ sugar.

　　The New Book of Middle Eastern Food Copyright © 2000Knopf