Roasted Date Yum Yums
A Nutritious Sweet Treat
Craving a sweet treat that’s both indulgent and wholesome? These Roasted Date Yum Yums combine the natural sweetness of dates with a rich, spiced ghee mixture infused with aromatic spices, tahini, vanilla, and nuts, all baked together for a crowd-pleasing dessert or snack. This recipe is a nutritious alternative to traditional sweets, offering a burst of flavour and health benefits in every bite.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
12 dried Medjool dates or fresh dates, pitted and halved
1 tablespoon ghee
1/8 tsp of mineral salt (more or less)
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1/8 teaspoon ground star anise
1 tablespoon tahini
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup walnuts (or nuts of choice, such as almonds or pecans), finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (for sprinkling)
Equipment
Small saucepan
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Spoon or pastry brush
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Dates: Slice the dates in half lengthwise and remove the pits if not already pitted. Arrange the halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
Infuse the Ghee: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the ghee. Add 1/8 tsp of salt, the ground cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, grated ginger, and star anise. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Prepare the Ghee Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the tahini, vanilla extract, and finely chopped walnuts until well combined. If the mixture is too thick to drizzle, add a teaspoon of warm water to achieve a pourable consistency.
Coat the Dates: Spoon or drizzle the spiced ghee-tahini-nut mixture over the cut sides of the dates, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Sprinkle lightly with ground turmeric.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 10 minutes, until the dates are slightly caramelized, the topping is set, and the nuts are lightly toasted.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Arrange on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy as a dessert, snack, or festive appetizer!
Health Benefits
This recipe is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that make it a guilt-free indulgence:
Dates: Known as nature’s candy, dates are rich in fibre, antioxidants, and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. They provide natural sweetness and sustained energy, making them an excellent alternative to refined sugars. Dates are unique among fruits for their ability to combine well with other foods, thanks to their balanced sugar profile and mild flavour, which complements both sweet and savoury ingredients without overwhelming the dish.
Ghee: Clarified butter is rich in healthy fats, including butyrate, which supports gut health and reduces inflammation. It’s lactose-free and provides a buttery, nutty flavor that enhances the spices.
Spices:
Cloves: Contain eugenol, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may support digestion and oral health.
Cinnamon: Helps regulate blood sugar levels and is packed with antioxidants to combat oxidative stress.
Cardamom: Aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory effects, adding a warm, floral note.
Ginger: Soothes the stomach, reduces nausea, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Star Anise: Offers antimicrobial benefits and a subtle licorice-like flavour that elevates the dish.
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that supports joint and brain health.
Tahini: Made from sesame seeds, tahini is a great source of healthy fats, calcium, and protein, promoting heart health and strong bones.
Walnuts: Provide omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fibre, supporting brain health and satiety.
Why It’s a Nutritious Alternative to Sweets
Unlike processed sweets laden with refined sugars and artificial ingredients, Roasted Date Yum Yums rely on the natural sweetness of dates, enhanced by nutrient-rich ingredients. The fibre in dates and nuts promotes satiety, preventing overindulgence, while the healthy fats in ghee, tahini, and walnuts provide sustained energy. The spices not only elevate the flavour but also offer anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, making this treat both delicious and functional. Dates’ unique compatibility with other foods ensures a harmonious flavour profile, blending seamlessly with the nutty, spicy, and creamy elements.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Baking the spiced ghee mixture with tahini, vanilla, and nuts creates a cohesive, richly flavoured topping that melds beautifully with the caramelized dates. The result is a warm, aromatic treat with a delightful balance of creamy, crunchy, and chewy textures. The dish is visually stunning, with golden turmeric and vibrant nuts adding flair, making it perfect for gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with different nuts, and suitable for various dietary preferences (gluten-free, vegetarian, and easily made vegan by substituting ghee with coconut oil). Whether served as a dessert or a sophisticated appetizer, these Yum Yums are sure to impress and satisfy.
Enjoy this wholesome, flavorful treat that proves healthy can be absolutely delicious!
