Description
Dubai Chocolate Dates are a delightful fusion treat combining the natural sweetness of Medjool dates with a crunchy kataifi and nutty pistachio-tahini filling, all drizzled with smooth milk chocolate and topped with chopped pistachios for an irresistible texture and flavor contrast. Perfect for a sophisticated snack or an elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Dates
- 15 Medjool dates, pitted
Filling
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup finely chopped kataifi
- 2 tablespoons pistachio butter
- 1 tablespoon tahini
Topping
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions
- Toast Kataifi: Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add the butter. Once the butter is just bubbling, add the finely chopped kataifi. Toast it, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes until the kataifi turns golden brown and fragrant.
- Mix Filling: Transfer the toasted kataifi to a small bowl. Stir in the pistachio butter and tahini until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Stuff Dates: Spoon about one tablespoon of the kataifi and nut filling into each pitted Medjool date, ensuring each date is nicely filled. Arrange the stuffed dates on a piece of parchment paper.
- Melt Chocolate: Place the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and can be drizzled easily.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the stuffed dates and sprinkle with finely chopped pistachios for added crunch and flavor.
- Chill: Place the prepared dates in the freezer for 10 minutes or refrigerate them for 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Notes
- Kataifi can be found in Middle Eastern or Mediterranean markets; ensure it is finely chopped for ease of toasting and mixing.
- Medjool dates are preferred due to their large size and natural sweetness, which balances perfectly with the rich ingredients.
- If pistachio butter is unavailable, you can substitute with almond or cashew butter, though the flavor will differ.
- For a darker or richer chocolate flavor, swap milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips.
- Store leftover dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
