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Sephardic Haroset (parve)


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The first time I tasted Sephardic haroset (Spanish or Arabic Passover fruit mixture), I knew I was far from my Atlanta home. Unlike the pale Ashkenazic (European) chopped apple and nut mixture from my family's Seder, this combination was deep mahogany and thick with dried fruits softened under a mysterious blend of spices. When I asked the host of this large family Seder what was in the haroset, she said lots and lots of raisins and dates. Spread on piece after piece of hard, dry matzo, I was grateful for its smooth, rich texture and sweet, lingering taste.
The cardamom-infused flavors of this wonderful fruit mixture only intensify with time, so feel free to make this a day or two ahead of the Seder. Beyond the Seder, Sephardic Haroset makes a healthy and satisfying breakfast or snack spread. After Passover, I love it as a spread on quick breads, such as date nut or pumpkin.
-- Lisa J. Solomon, for the Journal-Constitution

Hands on time: 15 minutes  Total time: 25 minutes  Serves: Makes 4 cups

Ingredients:

    1/4 cup sesame seeds

    1/2 cup pecans, chopped

    1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

    1 1/2 cup medjool dates, chopped small

    1/2 cup Calimyrna figs, chopped small

    1 cup raisins

    2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

    1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

    1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

    1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

    1/8 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

    1 teaspoon lemon juice

    1 cup orange juice

    3/4 to 1 1/2 cups water

Instructions:

In heavy saucepan, toast sesame seeds, pecans and walnuts over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted and aromatic, about 2-3 minutes, watching carefully so the nuts don't burn. Add dates, figs, raisins, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cardamom, salt, lemon juice, orange juice and 3/4 cup of water, and mix well. Bring to a boil, then turn heat to low, cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove top and simmer uncovered, stirring every few minutes, adding water 1/8 cup at a time as needed, until fruits soften into preserve texture, about 10-15 minutes. Cool and refrigerate covered.

Nutrition:

Per tablespoon: 39 calories (percent of calories from fat, 36), 1 gram protein, 6 grams carbohydrates, 1 gram fiber, 2 grams fat, no cholesterol, 17 milligrams sodium.

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