Stuffed Zahidi Dates with Nuts Recipe

The simplest date sweet there is: a nut tucked inside a date. Zahidi dates are firm and less sticky than soft varieties, so they slit cleanly and hold the nut well – handy for festive platters and when guests drop in.

Makes: 10 · Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 10 Aladdin Zahidi dates
• 10 almonds (or walnuts, pistachios or cashews)
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

Method

1. Open the dates: make a slit along one side of each date and remove the pit, if there is one.
2. Stuff: push one nut into each date and press the date gently closed around it.
3. Finish: drizzle with a little honey if you like.
4. Serve: arrange on a platter.

Tips

• Toast the nuts in a dry pan for 3–4 minutes for a deeper flavour. Let them cool before stuffing.
• Making ahead: stuff the dates up to a day ahead and keep them in an airtight box. Add the honey just before serving so they don't turn sticky.
• Mix it up: use a different nut in each row for a colourful platter.

Variations

• Roll the stuffed dates in desiccated coconut.
• Dip one end in melted dark chocolate and let it set.
• Add a little grated orange zest to the honey.

Which dates should you use?

Firm Zahidi dates keep their shape best. For a softer bite, try Kimia or Kalmi dates; for large stuffed dates, use Medjool. Compare all six in our guide to the types of dates in India.

Perfect for: festive platters, guests and lunch boxes.

More date recipes: stuffed dates with cream cheese and walnuts · Zahidi dates chutney · khajur barfi