Spicy Lemon Date Spread

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Have you ever tried to peel dates?

Yea me neither. Except I totally tried. It was hard. It was futile.

Did you know youre not supposed to peel dates? Youre not. All it takes is one text to a friend.. and youll know for sure.

Texting with sticky fingers. Its just real. No biggie.

dates

I love this spread. Its bold. Its how I want to live my whole life: sweet, spicy, tart, and good on everything.

Yea thats exactly how I want to live my life. Most days. Most days are tart days.

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This spread is flavored with lemon zest, fresh grated ginger, earthy cumin, and spicy chili flakes. Theres also a load of fresh lemon juice. Just lovely. It packs a punch.

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You saw the closeup. This is a less close up.

I just cant resist. Hes all fluff.

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This spread gets cooked down and pureed.

This is! the coo ked down part of the process.

Maybe I ate a hearty amount of spread just like this? So what. Stop staring.

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I served this spicy sweet spread on warm garlic naan. It was divine! It was piled on. It was double dipped. It was alluringly spicy and irresistibly sweet. This spread would also be incredible on a turkey sandwich, or as a thick sauce with roasted chicken or pork, and smashed potatoes.

Think big! Live big too!

Spicy Lemon Date Spread

adapted just slightly from Party Like A Culinista

Print this Recipe!

makes about 2 cups of spread

2 1/2 cups pitted, chopped dates (dates dont get peeled)

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

2 cups water

1 tablespoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger (ginger gets peeled)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

scant 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon sea salt

warm naan or pita bread

extra virgin olive oil for serving

Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped dates, lemon juice, water, zest, ginger, and spices to the pan. Simmer until almost all of the water is evaporated. The dates will begin to break down, and the simmering mixture will resemble a very thick stew., about 30 minutes.

Remove from the heat and allow to cool for a few minutes.

Place mixture in the bowl of a food processor fit with a blade attachment. Puree mixture until smooth. Thats it! Serve it up.

Spread is delicious warm and at room temperature. ! Spread w ill last, covered in the fridge, for up to 5 days.


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