Cheese Stuffed Dates

 
While planning for last month's 'global food' based blogging marathon, I realized that stuffed dates are a popular treat in the Arab world. They can range from a simple stuffing like coconut or sesame seeds to these party worthy cheese filled ones. The sweetened cheese filling here is flavored with cardamom / rose water / orange blossom water, strongly reflecting the Arabic influences. The stuffed dates are then garnished with nuts. These stuffed dates would be an yummy treat for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:
Soft, pitted Dates
Cream Cheese / Ricotta Cheese / Freshly made Chena
Powdered sugar to taste
Cardamom powder for flavor
Pistachios to decorate

Method:
* Make a small lengthwise incision on one side of each date using a small knife and keep them aside. (If using pitted dates, remove the pits.)
* Combine cheese, sugar and cardamom in a small bowl.
* Fill each date with about 1 tsp (or sufficient) cheese mixture.
* Garnish with sliced pistachios or press a pistachio on each date.

Notes:
1. One tbsp. cheese would fill 3 - 4 dates. Skim cheese can be used.
2. I garnished with some orange zest too and I think that flavor is too overpowering and only a little cardamom would suffice for the flavor. Even rose water / orange blossom water can be substituted for cardamom. 

This is going to be my contribution to 
1. Blogging Marathon #45
2. Kids' Delight - Potluck Party.

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