Fig and Date Bread

Fig and Date Bread Recipe: A Taste of Egypt

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 60 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Fig and Date Bread is a delicious and moist bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of sweet dates and figs, along with crunchy walnuts, makes this bread a favorite among many.

History

This recipe for Fig and Date Bread has been passed down through generations in many families. Dates and figs have long been used in baking due to their natural sweetness and health benefits. This bread is a great way to enjoy these fruits in a new and delicious way.

Ingredients

1 cup chopped pitted dates
1 cup chopped dried figs
0.25 cup softened unsalted butter
1.5 tsp baking soda
1 cup boiling water
0.5 cup white sugar
0.5 cup chopped walnuts
2 eggs
0.75 cup all-purpose flour
0.75 cup whole wheat flour
0.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x4-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the dates, figs, butter, and baking soda. Pour in the boiling water, stir well, and let it stand for 15 minutes.
3. Beat the sugar, walnuts, and eggs into the date mixture. Combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt; stir into the date mixture just until blended. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.
Substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty taste.
Drizzle the bread with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chop the dates and figs into small pieces to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the bread.

- Let the date mixture sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough bread.

- Use a toothpick to check for doneness - if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy a slice of Fig and Date Bread with a cup of tea or coffee for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat the oven before baking to ensure even cooking.

- Use a toothpick to check for doneness - if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dates or figs, you can use raisins or dried apricots instead.

- You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead of butter.

- Gluten-free flour can be used in place of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a gluten-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Fig and Date Bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fig and Date Bread sliced and arranged on a platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Fig and Date Bread pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee, or a glass of milk for a simple and satisfying snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Fig and Date Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fig and Date Bread contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fig and Date Bread contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fig and Date Bread contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Fig and Date Bread contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Dates and figs are rich in vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and eggs.

Summary

Fig and Date Bread is a nutritious and delicious treat that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also contains protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Fig and Date Bread is a delicious and nutritious treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With the natural sweetness of dates and figs, along with the crunch of walnuts, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat any time of day.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Fig and Date Bread. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Eleanor in her cozy kitchen. As we sipped on tea and caught up on each other's lives, she suddenly pulled out a worn, tattered recipe card from her overflowing recipe box.

"Oh, you must try this Fig and Date Bread recipe, dear," Eleanor exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It's been passed down in my family for generations, and it's always a hit at gatherings."

I eagerly took the recipe card from her hands, my heart racing with anticipation. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the sweet, fruity flavors of the bread in my mind. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it.

With Eleanor's patient guidance, I gathered the necessary ingredients and got to work in her kitchen. The scent of warm spices filled the air as the bread baked in the oven, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product.

When the bread was finally ready, I eagerly sliced into it and took my first bite. The combination of the sweet figs and dates, along with the warm spices, was like a symphony of flavors in my mouth. It was love at first bite, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I made the Fig and Date Bread countless times, perfecting the recipe with each batch. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its delicious taste. It became a tradition to bake a loaf whenever there was a special occasion or holiday, and it always brought smiles to the faces of those who enjoyed it.

As I continued to hone my baking skills, I learned new techniques and tricks to make the bread even more flavorful and moist. I experimented with different types of figs and dates, as well as adding in nuts and seeds for extra crunch. Each variation was a delicious success, and I loved the creative process of adapting the recipe to suit my own tastes.

One day, while visiting a farmer's market, I stumbled upon a vendor selling fresh figs and dates. The fruits were plump and juicy, just begging to be turned into a batch of Fig and Date Bread. I eagerly purchased some and rushed home to start baking.

The bread turned out even better than I could have imagined, with the fresh fruits adding a burst of natural sweetness to each bite. I knew then that using the best quality ingredients was key to making the perfect loaf of Fig and Date Bread.

As the years went by, I continued to make the bread for my loved ones, who always looked forward to receiving a loaf as a special treat. It became a symbol of love and nurturing, a way for me to show my affection through the time and effort I put into baking it.

Now, as I pass the recipe down to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making Fig and Date Bread as much as I have. May it bring you joy and warmth, just as it has brought to me and my loved ones over the years. And remember, the secret ingredient is always a pinch of love. Happy baking!